In Pembroke, Ontario, new parking spots outside the Pembroke OPP station at 77 International Dr. have been designated as community safety zones for online transactions. This initiative, called Project Safe Trade, provides a secure, monitored space for individuals to complete online purchases and sales. Available 24/7 without appointments, the zones aim to reduce fraud by encouraging transactions to occur in public, safe areas rather than private locations.

Const. Mike Mahon highlighted that hesitation to meet at these designated spots could be a warning sign. While the OPP won’t mediate transactions, they will step in if criminal activity arises. With the holiday season increasing online transactions, the OPP advises meeting in busy public areas, bringing a friend, conducting exchanges during daylight, and keeping communication records. Technology analyst Carmi Levy also recommends researching sellers and verifying items before completing a purchase.