Warning Over Scammers Targeting Facebook Marketplace Sellers

Monday, 23 August 2021 11:48

Sellers on Facebook Marketplace are being warned about scammers targeting them, pretending to be 'buyers' - before walking off with their goods.

Police are particularly urging people selling high value electrical items online to be vigilant following a number of reports where people pretending to be ‘buyers’ have walked away with the goods after convincing the seller they have paid via bank transfer.

There have been a total of 21 incidents since August 14 across Hampshire.

Laptops, mobile phones, tablets, games consoles, a drone and a watch are amongst the items stolen, ranging in price from £370 to £3400.

Those pretending to be ‘buyers’ have answered a seller’s advert quickly and when they have turned up to collect the items, they have then convinced the buyer they have transferred the money by showing them the transfer on a banking app. When the sellers have said they can’t see the money in their account, the ‘buyers’ have convinced them it will appear soon and have left with the goods.

On some occasions, the ‘buyers’ have taken a photo of the seller on their doorstep and asked them to produce ID.

Police advice is:

Always check and be completely satisfied the money is in your bank account before you hand over the goods. Genuine buyers will accept that this is correct practice

Have someone with you at home when prospective buyers attend, or arrange to meet them in a public place

You do not need to show anyone ID. There should be no reason to pass over your personal details / ID to a prospective buyer

If you believe someone has attempted to scam you in this way, please try and note down a description of the people involved or vehicle they travelled in and make a report.

Report any suspicious activity via our online reporting tool Report fraud | Hampshire Constabulary

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Warning Over Scammers Targeting Facebook Marketplace Sellers

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