10 Tips for Playing it Safe When Buying or Selling Items Via Social Media

Following a warning earlier this week from local police telling those buying or selling items online via Facebook or Craigslist to use extreme caution after several sellers reported being robbed at gunpoint, Lowell Police have issues some safety tips.

Lowell Police posted on Facebook Tuesday morning that over the past few weeks, there have been several instances where a victim has advertised an item for sale on Facebook and was then robbed. According to Lowell Police, when the agreed upon meeting place for the sale of the item took place, the seller was robbed at gunpoint.

Police are urging area residents to use extreme caution if you decide to conduct such business.

Here are some safety tips for buying and selling items on social media through platforms like via Facebook or Craigslist:

1. Do not meet alone. If possible bring a friend or family member
2. Always be cautious and aware of your surroundings
3. Do not meet in a secluded area
4. Do not invite strangers into your home and do not go to their home
5. Be cautious when buying or selling high value items
6. Perform the transaction during daylight hours
7. If it sounds too good to be true, it normally is
8. Tell a friend or family member when you are meeting
9. Bring your cell phone
10. Trust your instincts