Police introduce bold move to stop online marketplace theft

If you’re scared of being ripped off or even assaulted when buying something from an online marketplace, then this new initiative is for you.

Victoria Police has launched a new initiative to make online marketplace deals safer by introducing special zones for exchange.

The Safer Exchange Zones will be set up across 35 police stations across Victoria, specially intended for people who are buying items listed on online marketplaces so they can meet up at a secure and well-lit location, rather than in their homes, at a park or carpark.

Victoria Police is hoping to make online marketplace trades safer. Picture: NewsWire / John Gass

The 34 stations, which operate 24 hours a day, are fitted with CCTV cameras, signage and lighting to encourage safer in-person transactions.

Victoria Police has noticed an increase in robberies, thefts and assaults linked to online trading that peaked shortly before Covid lockdowns in 2020.

According to police, the most common high value items stolen during these trades were smartphones.

“With the popularity of buying and selling items via online marketplaces continuing to grow, this initiative is all about police getting on the front foot to ensure an emerging crime theme doesn’t become an embedded trend,” Commander Tim Tully said.

The 2022 trial was a success. Picture: NewsWire/ Gaye Gerard

In 2022, police launched a six-month safer exchange trial at a small number of 24-hour police stations in northeast Melbourne, resulting in less reports of theft and assaults.

The initiative is now set to expand across 35 police stations, including 22 in Melbourne and 13 across regional Victoria.

“While these sites are a safer alternative than meeting someone at your home or in a dimly lit area with no CCTV, we still encourage people to consider the risks of meeting a person they’ve never met before,” Commander Tully said. “Police suggest meeting during daylight hours if possible and bringing someone with you to the exchange.”