The Victoria Police Department is issuing a warning after a local resident had their front door kicked in and some pricey items stolen.
Just before 11 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 1, a Victoria resident reported arriving home to find the door to his residence kicked in and electronics stolen, including two laptops and two gaming consoles, said police, in a statement.
“The resident recently listed one of the laptops on an online sales platform and gave his home address to several prospective buyers,” said police. “Officers are working to determine if there is a possible link between the prospective sale and the break-and-enter.”
Here are some tips from police to consider when buying or selling using peer-to-peer online sales platforms:
Consider that there are fake or “hacked” online profiles that are used to scam prospective buyers or sellers.
If something seems “too good to be true” it probably is. Trust your instincts if the communication does not seem quite right. Be cautious when posting high-value items.
When buying or selling items, consider meeting in a busy, public place (coffee shop, shopping centre parking lot or police department). VicPD’s front foyer is available for transactions and is open Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Be wary of e-transfer requests to “hold” items or as a “deposit.” Sellers who are pushy or demand a deposit are likely scammers. Similarly, be wary of buyers who insist on paying by e-transfer or another payment platform before viewing the item, with little other communication about the item or before making pick up arrangements.
If the buyer is coming to your home do not provide your address until the details of the sale are finalized (date/time/agreed price). If the buyer is being evasive or demanding your address upfront move on and cease communications.
If you are the victim of a fraud or scam, please call the E-Comm Report Desk at (250) 995-7654 extension 1.
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