by Sharto Pagan

Created on: September 01, 2008

I, like many, have underestimated this site from Day One. I mean a slice of me still is dazzled by colorful graphics, a plentiful of features, aerodynamic web design and all the cosmetic mainstays of today's internet elite. Well, I am grown enough to say that...I was SOOOO wrong.

Craigslist is the Net's best kept secret (However, with an increasingly notorious reputation, this may not remain so much longer). Admittingly, from a user's POV, it is not the fanciest site but that is actually part of its charm and best functionality. It's streamlined interface makes it easily readable on any platform, be it your PC, your PDA, your smartphone or pretty much whatever you use to log on with. The whole site is pretty much WYSIWYG. Listings range from apartment listings to job postings. Anyone who watches the news or reads the paper knows that this site is known to list damn near anything for sale or Rental. I do mean ANYTHING! It is because it is so easily accessible that those with intentions that are more criminal have been able to infiltrate.

There have been reports of fraudulent listings, underhanded tactics...hell, even prostitution! Still in all fairness, these reports have been far and between. By all means, do not judge the site by the reckless activities of those who would plague various sites of the very same nature in similar fashion.I'm sure there are skeletons in almost website's closet but that's something to keep in mind while perusing. However, Craigslist have been using tightened security measures to deter illegal activity. Still, if they squeeze too tight, they risk turning away those who have come to use the site mainly because of the freedom they don't get elsewhere. Discretion is key to enjoying your time online and includes all sites in general.

Another side of the coin is that Craigslist is a potential way to make part time cash on the side. Got a whole bunch of junk that you have no use for? There are plenty of people on the site looking to trade, barter or buy outright. On the flip side, there is the section marked FREE. It is in essence, exactly that. People giving away stuff. With a little luck, time and elbow grease, you can take these things and resell them for a profit.
Craigslist could be a potential goldmine if you have the time to invest in navigating the various areas.

Like anything dealing with the internet, it's best do your research before walking into uncharted waters. Craigslist can be a treasure or a burden depending on your mindset. However, if I were to recommend a site to look up, this would be it.

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