Quincy Police Department offering parking lot as Community MeetUp Spot for Internet in-person transactions

QUINCY — The Quincy Police Department is registered with OfferUp, a mobile marketplace for local buyers and sellers in the United States, as a Community MeetUp Spot which allows residents to have a safe, public location to conduct Internet marketplace in-person transactions.

Millions of people buy and sell items locally every day in communities throughout the country. Community MeetUp Spots help buyers and sellers identify public places for offline in-person transactions. Community MeetUp Spots are secure locations that are well lit, monitored and covered by surveillance cameras at all times.

The Quincy Police Department parking lot, 530 Broadway, now is marked with signage and is registered with the OfferUp national database as a Community MeetUp Spot. Anyone is welcome to use this location at any time to conduct offline transactions. People do not need to call ahead. The parking lot is monitored by video surveillance cameras that provide an added layer of security to deter criminal activity.

The Quincy Police Department has partnered with 1,600 law enforcement agencies throughout the U.S. to minimize crime and promote safer practices for offline transactions.

Safety Tips For Internet Exchanges

• Shop smart — Watch out for deals that look too good to be true. Before meeting, do your research on both the item and the seller. Use ratings and reviews to transact with people who have positive reputations.
• Keep your personal information private — Keep communication in your app or sites’ messaging or chat feature to discuss the transaction.
• Meet in a sensible location — Meet in a well-lit, public location and bring, or tell a friend where you’re going. Go to SafeTradeSpots.com to find your nearest Community MeetUp Spot.
• Exchange money only when you have your item — Inspect your item and don’t use third party digital payment services, such as money transfers, to send payment before receiving your item.
• If in danger, call 911 – Trust your instincts. If in danger, contact the police.