But for criminals, online classified ad sites provide another means for them to carry out their schemes. Police warn thieves and robbers can use these sites to lure people who have either money or property worth stealing.

Det. EP Ellsworth, saids five cases have been reported in Greensboro this month.

 “A vast majority are electronic devices. They set up meets with the victim and they rob the victim and all of these cases have been by gun point,” said Ellsworth.

Ellsworth said one of the robberies happened in broad daylight. He says these cases do not appear to be related, but they share one common factor: Craigslist.com.

 “Craigslist is unique in that people meet in person unlike an Ebay where if you buy something it is shipped to you.  Craigslist is set up by region, so you already know that the person you are buying or selling is actually already in the area where you most likely where you will buy or sell,” said Ellsworth.

Ellsworth suggests some safety tips for buying or selling online.

“I would suggest meeting during the day and having people  with you. Meet in parking lots where there are open businesses, people walking  a place where there could be witnesses.  Think about anything that you can do to deter a crime against you”

Det. Ellsworth also suggests talking over the phone before you meet to buy or sell an item. He said collecting information like names, emails, and other personal information could help law enforcement in their search if a crime is committed.