Online sellers; beware of scam buyers

ACT Policing is urging the community to be cautious when selling items on online sites such as Gumtree and local message boards, following a number of recent fraudulent transactions.

Multiple investigations are underway after sellers have been scammed out of valuable items such as cars, mobile telephones and expensive jewellery.

Officer in Charge of Tuggeranong Police Station, Station Sergeant Chris Meagher said sellers need to be cautious when conducting a sale.

“Our investigations indicate that the scammers make contact with the seller and arrange a face-to-face meeting.  At the meeting, the scammer provides a fraudulent driver’s licence to assist the seller in believing it’s a legitimate sale.”

“After a price is agreed, the scammer then produces a fake bank receipt on their mobile phone to convince the victim that the money has been transferred into their account. Unfortunately it is not until a few days later, when the money does not arrive, that the victims realise they have been scammed.” Station Sergeant Meagher said.

“I urge sellers to hold on to your property until you can ensure a legitimate payment has occurred. Ensure the money has been received in your personal bank account or request cash when the buyer arrives to collect the item. Remember to also consider your own personal safety when inviting people to your premises.”

For more information about scams and how to protect yourself, visit the Scamwatch website at https://www.scamwatch.gov.au/.

If you believe you have been a victim of this type of scam, report it to police on 131 444 or at your local police station.

Media enquiries

Police Media — (02) 6264 9460, act-police-media@afp.gov.au