Here's what a handshake symbol on a parking space means

A new symbol is showing up on some parking spaces in Pembroke, Ont.

The handshake symbol you can see in some spaces outside the Pembroke OPP detachment at 77 International Dr. are meant to be community safety zones for online transactions.

If you buy something online and have to meet someone in person to pick it up or pay for it, the Upper Ottawa Valley OPP say there are spots you can use that will ensure the safety of all involved.

“The purpose of Project Safe Trade is to create a 'community safety zone' at an OPP detachment parking lot to facilitate online property transactions,” the OPP said in a news release. “Creating a 'community safety zone' is about moving online transactions away from secluded parking lots, personal residences or other areas and bringing them to a public place.”

The safe trade spots will be available at any hour and do not require appointments.

“The local launch of Project Safe Trade comes at an ideal time with the busy holiday season upon us. Online property transactions are ever-increasing and the UOV OPP is proud to be launching a community safety initiative aimed at decreasing offences related to online marketplace transactions,” said Upper Ottawa Valley OPP detachment commander Steph Neufeld. “Collaborative approaches like Project Safe Trade can help to reduce harm and victimization in our communities.”

Const. Mike Mahon told CTV News the spaces also provide a way to help avoid the possibility of falling victim to a scam.

“The old adage, if it's too good to be true, it probably is. Especially if you're suggesting to meet here and they're very reluctant, then that should set off a red flag for you,” he said.

The OPP say officers will not mediate transactions, provide documentation or be a witness to a transaction. But if an officer is requested, one will respond and only intervene if the transaction becomes a criminal matter.

If you choose not to use the spaces, there are other ways to stay safe when meeting strangers online for financial transactions.

• Meet in a busy public space
• Bring a trusted friend or family member as a witness
• Conduct transactions during daylight hours
• Do not erase emails, texts or voicemails between yourself and the buyer/seller 

Technology analyst Carmi Levy says the Christmas season has everyone rushing around, but it's important to slow down and do a bit of homework.

“Do your due diligence on the person that claims to be selling it. Look into their background, see what other things they've sold, look for information on how other buyers have dealt with them in the past,” Levy said.

“Insist on seeing the actual device that you're buying before you hand over any money. Insist that they power it on. Insist that you make sure it works before you pay for it.”