The Fairfield Police Department in Northern California issued a cautionary alert to the public regarding a scam involving the sale of stolen vehicles on Facebook Marketplace.

Incident Details

On June 2, responding to a FLOCK alert, the Fairfield Police Department arrived at North Texas Street and Air Base Parkway, where a stolen car was spotted. Utilizing a police drone, authorities surveilled the vehicle as it entered a store parking lot until officers could intervene. Upon inspection, the car was found unoccupied.

Suspected Fraud

Subsequent investigation revealed that the vehicle had been purchased through Facebook Marketplace, having changed hands multiple times before coming into the possession of the individual found with it. Authorities believe the Facebook listing under which the vehicle was sold to be fraudulent.

Consumer Protection Tips

In light of this incident, the Fairfield Police Department offered guidance for consumers engaging in transactions on Facebook Marketplace:

• Seller Verification: Prior to making a purchase, thoroughly examine the seller’s profile and reviews.
• Reporting Suspicious Listings: Report any listings that raise doubts or seem fraudulent to Facebook, and inform local law enforcement.
• Safe Meeting Places: When meeting sellers, choose safe, public locations, and scrutinize any accompanying paperwork for irregularities before making payments.
• Vehicle History Check: Utilize resources like Carfax to verify the vehicle’s history and ownership.
• Secure Payment Methods: Avoid carrying large sums of cash and opt for secure payment methods such as PayPal, which offer recourse in case of disputes.

Conclusion

With the prevalence of online marketplaces, it’s crucial for consumers to exercise caution and diligence to avoid falling victim to scams. By following these safety tips, individuals can better protect themselves from fraudulent activities when making purchases online.

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