These deals happen in a place none of the parties involved are familiar with. In most cases that eliminates any potential scammer or time wasters. Money should also be separated in small stack, usually 1,000 USD/EUR/whatever stacks.
European side of things is a lot more colorful than Asia I would say but only︀ talking on my personal experiences.
Risk of getting robbed is low if you meet somewhere︁ you and the other guy aren't familiar with. Meet in public places and avoid sketchy︂ looking buildings.