RCMP warning of Facebook Marketplace scam in Greater Victoria – VictoriaNow

The West Shore RCMP is warning the public after receiving numerous reports of fraud on Facebook Marketplace. According to police, the fraud consists of a seller listing an item for sale and requesting the buyer e-transfer a deposit to hold the item for sale. However, when the buyer tries to collect the item, they find out that the item does not exist. “We wish to warn the public of this type of fraud. There is always a risk to buying items online especially from sellers you don’t know,” said Cpl. Nancy Saggar, West Shore RCMP Media Relations Officer. Here are some tips to keep in mind if you are purchasing items online from Facebook Marketplace and other online platforms: Check the seller reviews; Pay for the item in person and inspect what you are buying; Pay in cash and avoid e-transfer ahead of time; Do not pay a holding deposit fee; Meet the seller in a public place.
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