Marlboro Introduces Internet Exchange Zone For Online Sales Meet-Ups

MARLBORO, NJ— The Internet can be a great place to buy things, but when you use sites like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace, meeting up with the seller to actually make the exchange can be a scary thought.

Marlboro recognizes that, and has introduced an "Online Internet Exchange Zone" at the municipal parking lot to help make the in-person part of these transactions safer.

How it works is simple: before meeting up, register the sale on the township website (here). You can then complete the transaction in the 24/7, well-lit area that has a surveillance camera.

There are a few restrictions. Weapons, cars, and anything bigger than 10'x10' cannot be bought or sold in the space, and at least one party must live in Marlboro.

“The safety and security of Township residents is of paramount importance. I, along with the Township Council, believe that this zone is in the best interest of the health, safety and welfare of the Township’s residents. As internet in-person sales between strangers increase, so does the chance for violence and fraud," Mayor Jonathan Hornik said in a statement, “By providing an area that will be video monitored by Marlboro Police, we hope to promote safer transactions between strangers.”

Image via Marlboro Township