Warning after fraudsters target users on Facebook

Suspect collected item in town but falsely stated money had been transferred

POLICE officers are calling on people to be extra vigilant when buying and selling on Facebook.

It comes after a Facebook trader in Leek was left £2,000 short having sold a computer graphics part online.

The suspect, who is described as a male in his 20s with an Irish accent, agreed to purchase the item on Facebook before visiting the victim’s house to pick it up shortly before 4pm on Sunday, June 20.

The man then showed the victim his banking app – highlighting that the money had been transferred and the transaction had taken place.

Once the suspect had left, the victim checked on his own banking app to see if the money had been deposited – but it had not.

Having contacted his bank, he was told that no payment had been made or attempted.

An investigation is under way, with the incident reported to Action Fraud.

PC Wendy Rigby from the force’s Resolution Centre said: “If you’re selling an item online then it’s imperative you take every possible action to protect yourself from fraud.

“If someone insists on collecting the item in person and paying by bank transfer, make sure that you have received the payment before letting them leave with the goods.”

Councillor Mike Bowen, who has the responsibility for communities at Staffordshire Moorlands District Council, is urging all Staffordshire Moorlands residents to be extra careful when buying or selling over Facebook.

He said: “I would urge residents to be very careful when buying or selling online. There are many scams ongoing at the present time.

“Please do not pay for anything without checking all the details out fully, including addresses.

“If it does not look correct or you have doubts, stop the deal.

“Covid has brought the very best out in people, but also the very bad.”

Anyone with any information should message Staffordshire Police on Facebook or Twitter quoting incident number 435 of 20 June, call 101, or alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.