Crime & Safety

Safety Tips for Shopping Online Classifieds From Dearborn Police

Reminders from the Dearborn Police Department about shopping smart online and staying safe.


Many people shop online using classifieds websites such as Craigslist. The Dearborn Police Department would like to remind residents of some common sense safety tips when shopping on these types of websites. 

Think Safety First


When meeting someone for the first time, please remember to: 
• Insist on a public meeting place like a café, store or public building. 
• Do not meet in a secluded place, or invite strangers into your home. 
• Be especially careful when buying/selling high value items. 
• Tell a friend or family member where you're going, when you are going and when you are expected to return. 
• Take your cell phone along if you have one. 
• It is best to have a friend accompany you. 
• Trust your instincts. 

Avoiding scams and frauds with online classifieds shopping: 
• Deal locally so you can meet the people in person. 
• Never wire funds via Western Union, Money Gram or any other wire service. 
• Know that fake cashier's checks and money orders are common. Banks will cash them and then hold you responsible for the money. 
• Never give out your financial information. 
•Never purchase expensive items sight-unseen. 


Always trust your instincts and follow the general rule- if it sounds to good to be true, it probably is. Report all suspicious activity to the Dearborn Police Department at (313) 943-3030. 


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