Home » Melbourne PD Offers Safety Tips When Shopping On Craigslist

Melbourne PD Offers Safety Tips When Shopping On Craigslist

By  //  June 25, 2015

With internet sites like Craigslist and other social media sites increasingly being used for buying and selling, opportunities for scammers and other criminals also increases. The Melbourne Police Department would like to remind those who utilize these sites to keep their safety a priority.
With internet sites like Craigslist and other social media sites increasingly being used for buying and selling, opportunities for scammers and other criminals also increases.
The Melbourne Police Department would like to remind those who utilize these sites to keep their safety a priority.

BREVARD COUNTY • MELBOURNE, FLORIDA – The Melbourne Police Department officers arrested a man this week for dealing in stolen property after he allegedly sold a small boat motor on Craigslist that the owners claimed was borrowed from them.

Officers were able to recover the item, but this case serves as a good reminder of the need to use caution when shopping from classified-ad type websites like Craigslist.

The Melbourne Police Department offers the following safety tips:

• If you’re selling, don’t photograph the item with your house easily identifiable in the background, especially if you’re selling high-value items.

• Never meet someone alone — bring a friend with you.

• Tell a friend or family member where you are going.

• Take your cell phone with you.

• Always arrange to meet in a well-lit public place. You are welcome to use the lobby of the Melbourne Police Department’s station at 650 N. Apollo Blvd., Melbourne, FL 32901.

• Do not have strangers come to your house, and do not go to a stranger’s house.

• Be suspicious if the buyer/seller refuses to meet at a public place or changes the agreed-upon meeting place.

• Don’t accept personal checks or money orders.

• Trust your instincts — If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

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ABOVE MAP:  Meetings for Craigslist deals are welcomed to use the lobby of the Melbourne Police Department’s station at 650 N. Apollo Blvd., Melbourne, FL 32901.