Lincoln Police say their Technical Investigations Unit has noticed an increase in frauds involving victims attempting to buy something on Facebook Marketplace. Public Information Officer Erika Thomas says there have been about 10-15 reports in the last two weeks.
“The victim will then communicate with the ‘seller,’ usually through Messenger, about buying whatever is for sale,” Thomas says. “The seller will then request half down to hold the item and will want the money sent through a payment app.”
Thomas says the ad is usually taken down a short time later. “Please be cautious of who you’re interacting with online, especially when you don’t know the person,” Thomas says. Some of the items for ‘sale’ have included a car and a swing set.
“Ultimately, we would not advise paying anyone a down payment for an item being sold through Marketplace so you can verify the legitimacy of the post and the condition of the item before purchasing.”
LPD offers a designated Swap Spot at their Northeast Team substation at 27th and Holdrege where the public can meet from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. as a way to minimize frauds or robberies.
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