[Students] Online Marketplace Safety Tips

[Jason Day]

Dear UCR Community,



The safety of students, faculty and staff is a top priority here a UCR. To that end, we share the following information and tips on how to protect yourselves and support the safety of others while making transactional exchanges from online purchases.



As online marketplaces like OfferUp, Facebook Marketplace, and Craigslist continue to be popular for buying and selling items, we want to remind everyone to prioritize safety when conducting in-person transactions. While these platforms can be convenient, they also come with potential risks. Please keep the following safety tips in mind:



Meeting in a Safe Location

  *   Arrange to meet in a well-lit, public place, preferably during daylight hours.
  *   If possible, use designated Safe Exchange Zones such as police station parking lots.
  *   Avoid meeting at your home, residence hall, or secluded areas.



Bring a Friend & Inform Others

  *   If you must meet in person, bring a friend or let someone know your location and expected return time.
  *   Share the details of your transaction, including the buyer/seller’s profile and meeting location, with a trusted person.



Trust Your Instincts & Stay Aware

  *   If something feels off or the other party is pressuring you, walk away.
  *   Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true. Scammers often use enticing prices to lure buyers.
  *   Limit the amount of personal information you share.



Use Secure Payment Methods

  *   Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Consider using secure digital payment methods like Venmo or PayPal (but be cautious of scams).
  *   Count money discreetly if paying in cash and confirm the authenticity of bills if you’re accepting cash.



Watch for Scams & Fraud

  *   Be wary of sellers who ask for payment before meeting or buyers who insist on using non-traceable payment methods.
  *   Check items thoroughly before purchasing. If buying electronics, test them before exchanging money.
  *   If a deal seems too easy or rushed, take a step back and reassess.



Report Suspicious Activity

If you experience a scam, encounter suspicious behavior, or feel unsafe, please report it to UCR Police & Campus Safety at 951-827-5222, or ucpdgeneralmail at ucr.edu<mailto:ucpdgeneralmail at ucr.edu>. You may also reporting the details to the platform where the transaction took place.



By staying cautious and following these safety practices, we can create a safer community for everyone. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out.



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