Administered by the Police Department, the Town of Cary has designated public parking spaces on the Town Hall Campus as locations for legal transactions involving items purchased/sold online. The Swap Spots are located behind the Town of Cary Police Department, near the Cash Points ATM and adjacent to Ambassador Loop.

Swap Spots are available 24/7. Additionally, residents may also use the Police Department Lobby at 120 Wilkinson Avenue as a safe place to exchange items weekdays from 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Swap Spot Quick Facts

• A police officer will not monitor each exchange, facilitate transactions, or keep a log of transactions.
• The Swap Spots are under 24/7 video monitoring, but not watched by police personnel.
• There is no guarantee that the Swap Spot will provide greater safety than other public locations.
• Swap Spots may be used for other legal exchanges, such as exchanging property between individuals or for child custody exchanges.
• As a reminder, guns are not permitted on Town property.

While many people who conduct business online are honest and sincere in buying and selling items, others use it to facilitate crime. Buyers and sellers should take safety precautions, including:

• Telling a friend or family member where you are going and when you’ll likely return.
• Bring a friend to the transaction site with you.
• Conducting exchanges during daylight hours and in a public place.
• Bring a cell phone and keep it turned on during the transaction.
• Trusting your instincts and taking additional safety precautions as necessary. Never be afraid to cancel a transaction if you identify a red flag or have a concern for your safety.

Always be vigilant about your personal and physical safety and take precautions to avoid financial crimes such as theft or identity theft. Craigslist, the popular website for online buying and selling, offers updated safety information for consideration. If you think you are a victim of a fraudulent online purchase, report it to the Cary Police Department at (919) 469-4012.