In Pembroke, Ontario, new community safety zones have been created to protect those making online transactions. These designated areas, marked by a handshake symbol outside the Pembroke OPP station, provide a secure location for in-person exchanges.
The initiative, called Project Safe Trade, aims to move transactions away from secluded spots and into public places to reduce risk. The zones are available 24/7, with no appointment necessary. This comes at a perfect time, as online transactions surge during the holiday season.
While police won’t mediate transactions, they’ll intervene if a criminal case arises. For added security, the OPP advises meeting in crowded places, bringing a friend, and never deleting communication records. Tech expert Carmi Levy also recommends researching the seller and verifying items before payment.
Project Safe Trade aims to reduce fraud and increase safety during online exchanges.