Safety tips for Craigslist users

Insist on a public meeting place like a cafe, bank, or shopping center.

Do not invite strangers into your home or meet in a secluded place.

Be especially careful buying/selling high value items.

Tell a friend or family member where you're going.

Take your cellphone along, if you have one.

Consider having a friend accompany you.

Trust your instincts.

See if your area has an official Swap Spot. Among some in the metro area:

Hennepin County: Sheriff's Water Patrol, 4141 Shoreline Drive, Spring Park.

Enforcement Services Division, 9401 83rd Av. N., Brooklyn Park

Public Safety Facility, 401 S. 4th Av., Minneapolis

Forest Lake: Front (east side) of the Forest Lake City Center, 1408 South Lake St.

Anoka County: Sheriff's office parking lot at 13301 Hanson Blvd. NW., Andover. Includes 24-hour security cameras and an emergency call box

Source: Law enforcement and Craigslist