Calgary Police Service – Facebook Marketplace Crime Prevention
As the temperature drops, it’s important to stay safe and avoid becoming a target for theft or fraud when selling valuable items like high-end jackets on platforms such as Facebook Marketplace.
Follow these tips:
• Always meet in a well-lit, busy public place such as a coffee shop, mall, or police service district office. Avoid inviting strangers to your home or going to theirs, especially for high-value items. The CPS offers parking lot space outside district offices that are monitored by security cameras, providing a safer environment for transactions.
• If possible, bring a friend or family member with you to the transaction.
• Ask for the buyer’s profile information ahead of time to verify their identity. Ensure they have a legitimate profile with a visible photo and history on the platform. Be cautious of incomplete or new profiles.
• When dealing with high-value items, avoid cash where possible. Use more traceable forms of payment, such as e-transfer or online payment services, which offer better records in case of disputes.
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