Online Purchases

Making Safe Purchases Online and in In-Person Meet-ups

1. Use Safe Exchange Zones and Amazon Lockers
   Protect yourself and your transaction by using these free tools, available at every police district station and Harbor Patrol.
2. Use public and well-lit meeting spots like police station lots or 24/7 stores.
   If you've made a purchase through an online market — such as Facebook Marketplace, eBay, Meetup, Craigslist, or other services — always tell a friend or family member where you're going. Inspect items thoroughly before paying, avoid sharing personal information or paying in advance, and consider using traceable payment methods. 
3. Research the other person.
   Look at their profile for red flags like a newly created account, generic information, or lack of sales history.
4. Share your plan.
   Tell a trusted friend or family member who you are meeting, where, and when. Consider sharing your location via your phone.
5. Keep communication on the platform.
   Avoid moving communication off the app, as it can be risky.
6. Avoid meeting at night.
   Choose daytime hours for your meetup.
7. Inspect the item.
   Check the item carefully for any defects before completing the purchase. If it's an electronic item, test it out on the spot if possible.
8. Avoid advance payments.
   Never pay for an item before you have met and inspected it in person.
9. Use secure payment methods.
   Avoid wire transfers, gift cards, and cash if possible, especially for large transactions. Use a traceable method like a credit card or a secure payment app like Venmo with buyer protection.
10. Be wary of scams.
    Watch out for common scams like overpayment, fake escrow services, or phishing attempts. 
11. Report suspicious activity.
    If you encounter a scammer or feel unsafe, report the user to the marketplace and local authorities. 
12. Bring a friend.
    If possible, bring someone with you to the meetup.
13. Trust your instincts.
    If something feels off or the person makes you uncomfortable, leave the situation immediately.
14. If your purchase was from Amazon, have your items delivered to an Amazon Locker.
    Use the free Lockers available at all police district stations and the MPD Harbor Patrol.

District Stations

First District
101 M Street, SW

Second District
3320 Idaho Avenue, NW

Third District
1620 V Street, NW

Fourth District
6001 Georgia Avenue, NW

Fifth District
1805 Bladensburg Road, NE

Sixth District
5002 Hayes Street, NE

Seventh District
2455 Alabama Avenue, SE

SOD Harbor Patrol
600 Water Street, SW