Buying and selling online is more popular than ever. However, there is a safety risk when meeting up with strangers to exchange money and goods.
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, along with partner, Quick Trip, have created places called Exchange Zones. These zones are in parking lots marked with red paint, monitored by 24-hour cameras and periodically checked by officers.
I want to emphasize the importance of using caution anytime you meet a stranger to conduct any type of financial transaction,” says CMPD Officer Johnathan Frisk with the Community Engagement Division. “This type of transaction, we want you to consider using the Exchange Zone.”
CMPD offers tips for your safety:
Use these exchange zones but still use caution and common sense
Meet during daylight hours and at a public place, where you expect other people to be around
Don’t go alone to meet a stranger. Bring someone with you
And if a deal seems to be too good to be true, it probably is.
List of exchange zones: