The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department has issued a reminder for residents to exercise caution when using online marketplaces such as Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and OfferUp. The department’s recent social media post aims to inform buyers and sellers about potential risks, including scams and theft, associated with these transactions.
🚨 Meeting up to sell or buy something from Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or OfferUp? Protect yourself from scams, robbery or worse!
— CMPD News (@CMPD) August 7, 2025
✅ Use a Safe Exchange Zone — These zones are typically found at QuikTrip locations and are monitored by video surveillance. The goal is to… pic.twitter.com/BVDCfVEQaE
A key element of this initiative is the creation of Safe Exchange Zones—designated areas that provide a monitored setting for conducting transactions safely. QuikTrip locations throughout Charlotte are serving as hosts for these zones.
The CMPD stated that these areas are under video surveillance, with the goal of lowering crime related to in-person exchanges of goods for cash. They posted a reminder to "Protect yourself from scams, robbery or worse," highlighting the importance of using these designated zones.
