Buying and Selling Online
Buying and Selling Online
When buying or selling items online, be aware of potential dangers and use caution. It can happen here!
Cpl. Vicente of the Barrhead RCMP says that "while online buy and sell pages have made finding the item you're looking for much easier, unfortunately the only way to protect yourself is to have the item in hand before making any sort of payment."
It's common to pay a deposit on a vehicle or hockey tickets online, only for the seller to suddenly stop answering all communication. Cpl. Vicente notes that "every summer and fall someone buys haybales online, only to realize the seller does not exist".
Protect your personal safety:
- Meet in a public place during the daytime, or use Barrhead's Designated Meeting Site.
- Have someone come with you when meeting up.
- Do not disclose how you will be paying if it is not necessary, especially if paying with cash.
- Turning a blind eye to obvious clues that the items is stolen is illegal. Report suspicious sales attempts to the police.
Protect your purchase:
- Obtain a bill of sale and verify the sellers' identity with photo ID. Inform them that you require this before meeting, as this will deter individuals selling illegitimate items.
- Take screenshots of the advertisements, ad ID number, buyer & seller contact information, and all communication.
- When buying or selling a vehicle, offer to meet at an automotive garage where the vehicle's quality can be assured.
- Ask why the items are being sold.