Certain parking places in Pembroke, Ontario now feature a new emblem.
The spaces outside the Pembroke OPP station at 77 International Dr. with the handshake symbol are intended to function as community safety zones for online transactions.
According to the Upper Ottawa Valley OPP, if you buy anything online and need to meet someone in person to pay for it or pick it up, you can select certain areas to ensure everyone’s safety.
According to an Ontario Provincial Police press release, “Project Safe Trade aims to establish a ‘community safety zone’ at an OPP detachment parking lot to facilitate online property transactions.” “The idea behind establishing a ‘community safety zone’ is to shift online transactions from private parking lots, homes, and other locations to public spaces.”
There is no need to schedule appointments; the secure trade places will be open at all times.
“The busy holiday season is approaching, making this the perfect time for the local launch of Project Safe Trade.” According to Steph Neufeld, commander of the Upper Ottawa Valley OPP detachment, “online property transactions are on the rise, and the UOV OPP is pleased to be initiating a community safety initiative aimed at decreasing offences related to online marketplace transactions.” “Project Safe Trade and other collaborative methods can lessen victimization and harm in our communities.”
Const. Mike Mahon told CTV News that the zones can also help prevent people from being victims of fraud.
“If it seems too good to be true, it probably is,” goes the saying. Particularly if you’re asking that they meet here and they’re really hesitant, then you should be concerned,” he stated.
According to the OPP, officers will not act as witnesses, mediators, or document providers during transactions. If an officer is summoned, they will respond and become involved only if the transaction escalates into a criminal case.
If you do not want to use the places, there are other ways to stay safe when meeting strangers online for money transactions.
Meet at a busy public area.
Bring a trusted friend or family member as witness.
Conduct transactions during daylight hours.
Do not delete emails, texts, or voicemails between you and the buyer/seller.
Carmi Levy, a technology analyst, says that while the Christmas season has everyone racing around, it’s crucial to calm down and do some homework.
“Do your due diligence on the person that claims to be selling it. Look into their background, see what other things they’ve sold, look for information on how other buyers have dealt with them in the past,” Levy said.
“Insist on seeing the actual device that you’re buying before you hand over any money. Insist that they power it on. Insist that you make sure it works before you pay for it.”
