Trade safe in the 204
204 Marketplace is a local, meet-in-person marketplace. Money never moves through us for person-to-person sales, so a few habits keep everyone safe.
Meet in a safe exchange zone
Many Manitoba RCMP detachments and Winnipeg Police Service stations have monitored parking areas meant for online sales. Daylight, public, and camera-covered beats a driveway at 10pm.
Cash or confirmed e-transfer only
Wait until the e-transfer actually lands in your bank before handing over the item. Screenshots are trivially faked, and 'overpayment refund' requests are always a scam.
Inspect before you pay
Test electronics, start the engine, check the serial number. Ask for the original receipt on high-value items.
Keep it on-platform
Use 204 Marketplace messages until you've agreed on a deal. If someone rushes you off-platform, asks for gift cards, or wants to ship from outside Manitoba, report the listing.