Scam warning: facebook marketplace fraud series

POLICE are issuing a warning after a series of frauds in the county

The victims have advertised items to sell on Facebook marketplace such as iPads or iPhones. They have been contacted by a woman, claiming to be called Sarah, wanting to buy the item. A man has later attended their address to collect the item for “Sarah”. The promised transfer of money for the item has not been received. “Sarah’s” facebook profile disappears.   

Police have four reports from victims who have lost goods and two further reports of possible attempts to steal goods. Two victims are from Lincoln and two from North Hykeham. All incidents were reported between 8 pm and 11 pm yesterday (13 August). 

If you are selling an item online, please don’t hand over the goods until you are sure you have the payment. Someone may look genuine on their profile, but as in “Sarah’s” case, it may be a fake profile. 

If you have any information – or you fear you may have fallen victim to this scam – please call 101 with incident reference 490 of 13 August.