Internet Purchase Exchange Zones Available to the Public

BUFFALO GROVE, IL -- With the start of 2019, the Buffalo Grove Police Department is reminding residents of Internet Purchase Exchange Zones that are available to local residents who are buying or selling items, typically from internet sites. The police department offers two of these ‘safe zones,' one is located inside the Police Department lobby, which allows the transaction to be recorded on both video and audio, in addition to providing a well-lit area for the exchange to take place, according to the news release. The second zone is in the parking lot on the west side of the police station, which is video recorded only.

The station is located at 46 Raupp Boulevard in Buffalo Grove.

“This program has been in place since 2016, and is used on a weekly basis,” said Community Relations Officer Meghan Hansen. “We encourage everyone to utilize this service as it helps to prevent scams, and keeps both parties participating in these transactions, safe. There is no need to meet a stranger at their home or invite them to yours during these types of transactions.”

At either the buyer’s or seller’s request, a police officer will stand by while the exchange is occurring and can offer additional safety precautions if needed.

Photo via Buffalo Grove Patch