This is What Police Are Doing to Make Online Purchases Safer in Mississauga

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Published November 27, 2018 at 11:37 pm

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Let’s face it: buying and selling online these days is the norm, not the exception.

With the advent of online buying and selling websites such as Craigslist or Kijiji, many people are taking that route nowadays when it comes to obtaining cheaper consumer products.

Years ago, I myself bought something online and had to meet the seller at a Tim Hortons in the west end of Mississauga to complete the sale. I was lucky that it was during the day and plenty of people were around.

But for many others, there are many potential safety issues surrounding the buying and selling of goods listed online. To be fair, most transactions are arranged and made without incident. It is, after all, relatively rare to hear of a meetup going wrong.

That said, there have been instances in which sales arranged online have gone wrong, which is why Peel Regional Police have tried to mitigate the risk by having what they call Buy and Sell Exchange Zones.

“Use our marked parking spaces when you buy or sell something to someone you met online. Many people are becoming victims of robberies, thefts and fraud targeted by people they meet online. These parking spaces aim to increase public safety and reduce crime by giving people a safer place to meet when making transactions with strangers,” the police reminds the public in this post.

As indicated in the video, the Buy and Sell Exchange Zone is active 24/7, there is a dedicated camera on the site and the place is well lit at all times. The officer also suggests that refusal to meet at this zone could be a red flag because why would anyone not be comfortable using the zone?


In Peel Region, the Buy and Sell Exchange Zones are located in three places:

Mississauga

11 Division – 3030 Erin Mills Pkwy., Mississauga
12 Division – 4600 Dixie Road, Mississauga.

Brampton

22 Division – 7750 Hurontario Street, Brampton.

Here are some additional tips:

  • Always meet the buyer or seller in a public place, preferably a busy one such as a shopping mall if you’re not meeting at a Buy and Sell Exchange Zone.

  • Do not agree to meet up at your home or a remote location.

  • Bring a friend with you.

  • Be extra cautious when selling a small device, such as a smartphone. It’s easier for thieves to grab small objects and run away with them.

  • If you’re buying, bring only the cash you need to make the purchase

Safe buying and selling everyone!

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