Meeting up safely
🛡️ Find a Safe Trade Zone near you
Many police stations offer monitored "safe exchange" areas with cameras and 24/7 lighting — the safest place to meet a stranger from the internet.
Meet in public
Pick a well-lit, public place — a police station lobby, a busy coffee shop, or a store parking lot. Avoid meeting at your home or a stranger's home.
Bring someone with you
If possible, bring a friend or family member, especially for higher-value items.
Inspect before you pay
Check the item in person before handing over money. For electronics and vehicles, test that they actually work.
Use cash or a traceable payment
Cash is simplest for in-person deals. If you use a payment app, confirm the payment has actually landed before handing over the item.
Trust your gut
If a deal feels off — the price is too good, the seller avoids meeting in person, or they pressure you to move fast — walk away. You can also report a listing or block a user directly from any conversation.