Police are investigating a crime series where offenders have fraudulently obtained motor vehicles from victims after being advertised on online sales websites.
The victims have advertised their second-hand vehicles for sale online. They are then contacted by a prospective buyer and arrangements are made for a meeting to complete the purchase.
All victims have described several male suspects at these meetings. During the meeting, the suspects have produced false electronic bank transfer receipts to convince the victim that payment has been made. The victim has then handed over the vehicle to the suspects.
Victims are not alerted to the deception until well after the incident when funds fail to arrive into their accounts.
Police are investigating 14 separate incidents across the metropolitan area and the Adelaide Hills since June this year, but investigators suspect that many more have gone unreported and believe that a group of suspects is involved.
Investigators from Northern District Criminal Investigation Branch encourage anyone who has been a victim to this type of scam to make a report to police. Anyone with information regarding those committing these crimes are encouraged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au
Police recommend that anyone thinking of buying or selling goods online use the following tips:
- Arrange to meet the other person in a public place, such as a shopping centre or public car park to exchange the items
- Ask for a receipt or some sort of proof of purchase
- Keep a record of all transactions if you are paying for the item in installments
- Ensure funds are actually in your account prior to handing over your property, and not just pending transfer prior to completing any sale with a potential buyer.
If you believe you have been the victim of an online fraud, report it immediately at http://www.cyber.gov.au/report
You can also contact your local police station or the Police Assistance Line on 131444.
For further information about staying safe online, click on the following link:
