Police have urged the public to take caution if they are meeting people to buy or sell items advertised online.

A police spokesman said that between December 24 and 26, the Bermuda Police Service received three reports of an unknown individual stealing an item offered for sale on Facebook after meeting the unsuspected sellers at pre-arranged locations.

“The stolen items included popular brand name electronics,” the spokesman said. “Inquiries are ongoing regarding all of these matters, with the possibility some instances may be linked.”

Members of the public are urged to take precautions, viewing the buyer or seller’s profile, taking a screen shot and take note of the profile’s web address.

“Check how long the profile has been active, when it was created and how many friends the account has,” the spokesman said.

“Be wary of newly created profiles that only have a few friends, or no friends at all. Also, be suspicious of promoted accounts that have testimonials from recently created profiles.

“Ask for a phone number and speak to the person before meeting.”

Prospective buyers or sellers are urged not to go to meeting places alone and making sure others known when and where the exchange is taking place.

“Meet in well-lit, public areas before the hours of darkness. Avoid inviting an unknown individual to your home,” the spokesman continued.

“Take note of the vehicle used by the buyer or seller, including the colour, type and its licence plate.”

Any suspicious activity can be reported to the police by calling 211, or 911 in an emergency.

Online reports can also be made via the BPS community portal, https://portal.police.bm.