In today’s age of online buy and sell transactions many unsuspected people are becoming victims of robberies, thefts and fraud. In order to increase safety, Campus Safety - St. George, invite you to use the front lobby of 21 Sussex Avenue, Toronto (Our Office) to facilitate property transactions arranged online.

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Users of online classifieds websites, whether buying or selling can be vulnerable to crimes such as fraud, theft and robbery. The exchange of goods for payment poses varying risk factors whether via mail or face to face. University of Toronto community members are reminded that Campus Safety Services, located at 21 Sussex Avenue, Toronto, is open 24 hrs a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year and provides a safer alternative to conduct your buy & sell exchange where the presence of Campus Safety Special Constables or video surveillance, may deter unlawful behaviour.

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Safety Tips for Online Buy and Sell Transactions

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The Exchange:

• When meeting a buyer or seller in person always use a busy public location, consider locations like a mall food court, a busy park lot or a parking lot of the closest police station. The suggestion of a police station lobby will have most would be thieves opt out up front.

• Do not use a remote location or your home, the convenience is not worth the risk.

• Use the buddy system to avoid going alone whenever practical. If this is not possible let someone close to you know the details of your meeting.

• Take extra precaution when selling small handheld devices, like a cell phone, as they can be easily pocketed and stolen. As a buyer, bring only the cash you need for the purchase.

• When buying or selling, you should always meet in person to inspect the product before exchanging funds.

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Beware of Fraud:

• Limit the potential for fraud when buying or selling online, a face to face exchange is preferable to mail.

• Only provide minimal personal information as a buyer or seller for any online transactions.

• If online payment is required avoid using wire transfer as this is a common channel for fraud, instead consider using payment options such as PayPal or Google checkout.

• Use common sense. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.