Bluegrass Crime Stoppers
HOTLINE: (859) 253-2020

Craigslist Safety

In the not so distant past the classified ads of the local newspaper was a common way to buy and sell items.  As technology continues to evolve, the way we conduct business has changed.  Craigslist, an online classified site, is a popular site for people to buy and sell items.  Once an ad is posted you will almost instantly find someone selling what you need to buy or what you have to sell.  Thus, the clear advantage of Craigslist is speed, which equates to your time.

Unfortunately, the criminal element has found a way to exploit the convenience of technology.  Nationwide, criminals have used Craigslist and similar sites to commit various crimes such as robberies and scams on both potential buyers and sellers.  Lexington is no exception, as we have seen a steady increase in robberies through the use of ads on craigslist.  Just as it is noted on the Craigslist website, “The overwhelming majority of Craigslist users are trustworthy and well-intentioned”.   With that in mind, below are some safety tips to help make your shopping safer:

1. Meet at a public place.
2. Never go alone.
3. Never bring cash.
4. Ask yourself if this is too good to be true.
5. Ask lots of personal questions.
6. Tell someone where you’re going.
7. Carry a cell phone.
8. Never make a quick judgment call.
9. Trust your instincts.

Citizens are asked to contact police immediately if they become the victim of a robbery through the use of Craigslist.