Buying Or Selling Something Online? Make A Safe Exchange At Plainfield PD

PLAINFIELD, IL -- Want to buy or sell something on Craigslist, but nervous about meeting up with a stranger? The Plainfield Police Department is looking to make online exchanges safer by designating an

Internet Purchase Exchange Location at the police department, 14300 S. Coil Plus Drive. The area is under video surveillance for added protection, police said.

"The initiative addresses safety and awareness concerns regarding Internet-based purchases or sales to/from strangers through various selling websites," police said in a news release. "While most transactions through websites are credible, their popularity makes them vulnerable to criminal activity from online predators."

The Internet Purchase Exchange Location is located directly in the front parking lot at the police department and offers tow side-by-side parking spots marked with a sign. The area is well lit and recorded by a high-resolution digital surveillance system 24/7, 365 days a year, police said.

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"Anyone wishing to use the Internet Purchase Exchange Location in the parking lot at the Plainfield Police Department should be aware that while all transactions are digitally recording, the videos are not monitored 'live' and police officers will not assist or witness the transactions," police said. "In the event that an officer is needed, either go into the police department and request to speak with one or please call dispatch for non-emergency situations and 911 for emergencies."

Police Chief John Konopek offered safety tips for meeting with a stranger for an internet transaction:

• Don’t make a transaction alone
• Tell a third party you’re conducting a transaction
• Meet in a public place, such as the Plainfield Police Department’s designated Internet Purchase Exchange Location
• Don’t go to someone’s home or invite them to your home
• Take cash or money orders for the transaction, but try to be discreet with the money
• Conduct the transaction during the daytime

Photo via the Plainfield Police Department