The Arlington Police Department offers a proactive solution for residents looking to secure transactions of goods bought or sold online or through social media. They've established Safe Exchange Zones in the parking lots of all four police stations in the city, giving people a place to conduct their sales or trades with a greater sense of security.

These zones are located at the Ott Cribbs Public Safety Building, South District Police Station, West District Police Station, and East District Police Station. As reported by the City of Arlington's official website, this initiative has been set up to reduce the risk of theft or fraud, particularly for high-value items like trendy tennis shoes and electronics. In addition to this measure, the police also shared tips on staying safe while meeting strangers for transactions. These include conducting due diligence on the products and the persons involved in the trade.

Other advice includes never giving out personal information such as home address or phone number and bringing another person along when meeting for a transaction. The importance of conducting business in a public area and being cautious when individuals approach without solicitation was also stressed.

The police issue a caution for those with children, urging parents to monitor internet activity closely. Buyers and sellers alike are reminded not to move to an isolated location or inside a vehicle for transactions and to stay vigilant if the other party attempts to change the agreed-upon location upon arrival.