Safe Online Transaction Zone

Looking to sell that old coffee table but hesitant to invite a stranger into your home? The Rockville City Police Station offers its parking lot as a safe place for buyers and sellers to complete transactions arranged through online services.

The station’s parking lot, at 2 W. Montgomery Ave., is well-lit, under constant video surveillance, and open to the public 24/7 for transactions.

Tips for Buying and Selling Online

• Ask questions before meeting. If the seller can’t answer basic questions, they may not actually have the item and could be looking to commit a crime.
• Be cautious of sellers who only list an email address. Request a phone number, and avoid sellers who refuse to provide one.
• Meet in a public place, like a police station. Criminals prefer easy targets and avoid well-monitored areas because they do not want witnesses.
• Bring a friend. Never meet alone.
• Never agree to a second location. If asked to go elsewhere, decline.
• Trust your instincts. If a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
• Stay in communication. Let a spouse, friend, or coworker know where you’re going, who you’re meeting, and when you expect to return.
• Be on guard and be smart. Avoid wearing flashy or expensive clothing, which can attract criminals.
• Report suspicious activity to the Rockville City Police Department.