In Pembroke, Ontario, new parking spots marked with a handshake insignia outside the Pembroke OPP station at 77 International Dr. are designated as community safety zones for online transactions.

Known as Project Safe Trade, these zones aim to provide safe public spaces for completing online purchases and sales.

Upper Ottawa Valley OPP’s initiative is designed to shift these transactions from private areas to secure, monitored locations. The secure trading locations are available 24/7 without needing appointments. The initiative is timely with the holiday season approaching, as online transactions are increasing.

Const. Mike Mahon emphasized that these areas help prevent fraud, noting that reluctance to meet at these safe zones can be a red flag. While the OPP won’t act as witnesses or mediators, they will intervene if a transaction becomes a criminal matter.

To ensure safety during online transactions, the OPP advises meeting in busy public areas, bringing a friend, conducting transactions during daylight, and keeping communication records. Technology analyst Carmi Levy also recommends researching sellers and verifying items before purchase.