Internet scam victims lost $10,000 – police
Victims of an internet scam soliciting payment for goods that are never delivered have lost an estimated $10,000, police said yesterday.
A spokesman for the Bermuda Police Service issued a warning against making online payments in relation to the scam, recently brought to the public’s attention.
It advertises goods for sale via social media sites, mainly Instagram, accepts payments and fails to deliver the goods to the buyer.
The spokesman said: “Those involved in this scam have continued to exploit unsuspecting persons and have used method such as offering high end items such as furniture and appliances for sale at significantly reduced cost.
“Once an expression of interest is received from a prospective buyer, the would be seller then attempts to hasten payment by claiming there is a lot of interest in the item. Individuals not wanting to lose out on a ‘deal’, then make the payment and never receive the items advertised.
“So far an estimated $10,000 has been lost by individuals as a result of this illegal activity.”
He said there is one fraudulent Instagram account in particular, kamd_xo, that is being used to promote the items for sale, which has been brought to the attention of Instagram.
The spokesman added: “The public is advised to ignore any advertisements posted under this account or any other Instagram account where the seller insists you make payment before seeing the item.”
Detective Sergeant Seymour Foote of the Criminal Investigations Unit said: “As we’ve previously advised please take necessary precautions when making purchases, particularly online purchases, from private sellers.
“Remember, if it appears too good to be true, it probably is.”
• When buying from a private seller, avoid making electronic bank transfers.
• Make inquiries of and about the seller.
• Meet with the seller at a public location within easy view of other people.
• If possible, take someone along with you.
• Be sure to physically check items before making payment.
• Do not make payment before you have received the item.
• If you are suspicious about a seller or items advertised for sale on social media, simply do not make the purchase
Victims of this scam, or those with any information about anyone engaging in it or acts of similar nature, are asked to call the BPS non-emergency reporting number 211, the main police number 295-0011 or 800-TIPS [8477].
Members of the public may also wish to contact a police officer they know directly.
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