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  Geebo 9:00 am on November 3, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: Facebook Marketplace, homeowners ( 3 ), real estate ( 139 ), rental scam ( 91 ), Scams ( 1,613 ), zillow ( 17 )   

  Fraudsters Hijack Zillow Photos for Facebook Rental Scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  If you just bought a home or you’re hunting for a rental, watch out—scammers are getting bolder. A new online con is targeting recently sold homes, using stolen listing photos to trick people into paying fake deposits. One home buyer learned that the hard way when his brand-new property showed up on Facebook as a bargain rental.

  What’s Going On:

  A new online scam is preying on homeowners and renters in Bay County, Florida—and this one targets homes that have just been sold. The scheme recently blindsided an out-of-state buyer who purchased a home in Panama City for a family member. Before he could even celebrate the closing, someone hijacked the home’s Zillow photos and posted it on Facebook as a rental—complete with fake contact info and a too-good-to-be-true price.

  The bogus listing advertised the two-bedroom, two-bathroom home for just $850 a month, roughly a thousand dollars below the going rate in the area. The fake landlord then urged would-be tenants to send a few hundred dollars upfront to “hold” the property.

  How They Do It:

  Scammers typically scrape real estate photos from legitimate listings, then repost them on Facebook Marketplace or similar platforms. They pose as the property owner—often claiming to be overseas or out of state—and pressure potential renters to send deposits quickly before someone else “takes it.”

  In this case, when the homeowner reported the post to Facebook, the company initially claimed it didn’t violate policy. It took over a month of back-and-forth before the platform finally removed the fake listing. Meanwhile, the imposter profile kept luring renters with that suspiciously low rent and a sense of urgency—two classic red flags in the rental scam playbook.

  Why It’s Effective:

  This scam works because it preys on both trust and timing. The homes are brand new to the market, often still appearing in online searches from their legitimate listings, which makes the scam post look credible.

  Renters desperate for affordable housing see an unbelievable deal and rush to secure it. By the time they realize the “landlord” is fake, their deposit has already been wired—often overseas, where recovery is nearly impossible.

  Many of these scams originate from outside the U.S., making prosecution difficult. If the suspect is local, however, and money has changed hands, investigators can pursue charges and attempt to recover stolen funds.

  Red Flags:

  • The rent is hundreds below market value.
  • The “owner” claims to be out of the country or unable to meet in person.
  • You’re asked to wire money or pay via apps before seeing the home.
  • The listing appears only on social media, not verified platforms.

  How to Stay Safe:

  • Search the address across multiple sites (Zillow, Realtor, Apartments.com) to spot duplicates.
  • Contact the real estate agent or title company directly if something seems off.
  • Never send deposits or application fees without confirming ownership.
  • Stick to verified platforms with renter protections—not random Facebook posts.

  If You’ve Been Targeted:

  For Renters:

  If you already sent money or personal information to a fake landlord:

  • Contact your bank or payment app immediately and explain it was a scam—they may be able to freeze or reverse the transaction.
  • File a police report with your local law enforcement and include all usernames, messages, and receipts.
  • Report the fake listing to the platform (Facebook, Craigslist, Zillow, etc.) so others aren’t victimized.
  • Submit complaints to both the FTC’s Fraud Report Portal and the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.
  • If you wired funds internationally, contact Western Union or MoneyGram fraud departments immediately to request a reversal.

  For Homeowners

  If someone has cloned your property listing:

  • Take screenshots of the fraudulent post, messages, and profile.
  • Report the listing to the hosting platform and provide proof of ownership, such as closing documents or official listings.
  • Notify local law enforcement—if the scammer is targeting local renters, officers can issue warnings or open an investigation.
  • Let nearby neighbors or caretakers know to watch for suspicious visitors showing up expecting to rent your home.
  • If you live out of state, consider hiring a local property manager or friend to keep an eye on the home and flag new scams quickly.

  Acting fast—whether you’re a renter or an owner—helps shut down the scam before more victims get caught in the same trap.

  Final Thoughts:

  If a rental deal looks too good to be true, it almost always is. Scammers know how to make listings look legitimate—but a quick reverse search and a healthy dose of skepticism can save you hundreds or even thousands.

  Further Reading:

  • FTC: How To Avoid Rental Listing Scams
  • BBB: Watch Out for Fake Rental Ads on Facebook Marketplace
  • MyPanhandle: Local Home Caught in Online Rental Scam
   

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  Geebo 8:00 am on March 31, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: Facebook Marketplace, Scams ( 1,613 ), stolen cars ( 11 ), used car ( 40 )   

  Stolen Dreams in a $14K Car Scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  What began as a hopeful transaction quickly unraveled into a devastating ordeal for a northern Wisconsin family who unknowingly purchased a stolen vehicle in what authorities describe as a sophisticated online scam.

  The couple from Prentice had found a 2024 Toyota Camry listed for sale on Facebook Marketplace. The seller, claiming a backstory involving family changes and an unused vehicle, seemed trustworthy. After exchanging messages and agreeing on a price, the family drove more than 11 hours round-trip to Calumet, Illinois, to meet him in person. The deal closed with a $14,000 cash payment.

  The excitement surrounding the new purchase was short-lived. When the family attempted to register the car in Wisconsin, they were informed by law enforcement that the vehicle had been reported stolen. The title, which appeared legitimate, was later revealed to be a high-quality fake. State officials determined the forgery only after discovering a single incorrect digit in the vehicle identification documentation. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation and the Secretary of State’s office in Illinois were both involved in the verification process.

  The fallout was immediate and financially devastating. The Price County Sheriff’s Office impounded the Camry, leaving the family without transportation and without recourse to recover the money they had paid. Efforts to locate the seller, who identified himself only by a first name, have been unsuccessful.

  Consumer protection advocates say this type of fraud is becoming more common, particularly with the rise of online marketplaces, where identity verification and buyer protections are limited. Transactions involving unusually low prices should raise immediate concerns. In this case, the vehicle had been listed well below its market value, which ranges between $25,000 and $27,000, according to current Kelley Blue Book estimates.

  Experts also warn against using cash for major purchases involving private parties online. The lack of paper trail makes recovery nearly impossible once a scam has been completed.

   
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  Geebo 9:00 am on February 11, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: Facebook Marketplace, real estate ( 139 ), rental scam ( 91 ), Scams ( 1,613 ), zillow ( 17 )   

  Rental Scam Hits Community Hard 

  

  By Greg Collier

  In Chatham County, reports of a rental scam have surfaced, leaving several hopeful tenants without a home and out of money. The scam operates through online platforms, with fraudulent listings appearing on social media and real estate sites, such as Facebook Marketplace and Zillow.

  Many of those affected were drawn in by enticing rental offers that appeared legitimate but were advertised at significantly lower prices than the market rate. After responding to these listings, they engaged with individuals who provided documents, accepted electronic payments, and assured them that the rental process was moving forward.

  The deception only became clear when victims arrived to move in, only to find that the property was already owned or occupied by someone else. By that time, the money exchanged was long gone, and the scammer had disappeared.

  Similar cases have been reported in the past where a prospective renter was caught off guard when a representative of the actual property owner arrived to check on the house. The realization of the scam came too late, leaving yet another individual facing financial loss and housing uncertainty.

  Authorities are urging caution when searching for rental properties, emphasizing the importance of verifying listings and meeting property owners or managers in person. The process of securing a home can be stressful, but taking the time to confirm details before exchanging money can prevent falling victim to schemes like these.

  For those seeking rental homes, it’s crucial to ensure the person listing the property is the rightful owner or a verified manager. Verifying rental listings through trusted sources and being wary of deals that seem too good to be true can be key steps in avoiding fraud.

  As law enforcement continues to investigate, prospective renters should remain cautious and take extra precautions to protect themselves from becoming the next target of this ongoing scam.

   
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  Geebo 9:07 am on January 2, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: cashier's checks ( 3 ), check scam ( 85 ), Facebook Marketplace, fake check ( 54 ), Jeep, Scams ( 1,613 ), used car ( 40 )   

  Scammed and Stranded: A $25K Jeep Gone 

  

  By Greg Collier

  The story of a man in Trussville, Alabama, who lost his Jeep Wrangler to a scam highlights a troubling trend in online marketplaces, the increasing vulnerability of sellers to fraud and the limited recourse available to victims. Selling a vehicle, especially one as valuable as a $25,000 Jeep, should not become a gateway to financial devastation. Yet, for this individual, the transaction ended in loss, frustration, and an uphill battle to reclaim justice.

  The ordeal began with what seemed like a routine transaction. The seller advertised his vehicle on Facebook Marketplace, and a buyer expressed interest. They met in a public area with surveillance cameras in an effort to ensure safety during the exchange. The buyer handed over a cashier’s check, a seemingly secure method of payment. However, days later, the check was discovered to be fraudulent, leaving the seller without his vehicle or the promised payment.

  The situation quickly spiraled into a complex and disheartening battle. While law enforcement identified a suspect and issued a warrant, the seller’s attempts to recover his losses through insurance were met with denial. His policy explicitly excluded coverage for losses stemming from fraudulent sales agreements, a clause that left him stranded financially. Despite being a long-time customer, his frustration with the insurance company’s decision underscores the broader issue, victims of scams often find themselves without meaningful support from institutions they’ve relied upon.

  Adding insult to injury, the seller remains responsible for the remaining payments on a vehicle he no longer possesses. The Jeep is still legally his, yet it is out of reach, lost in the hands of a criminal. This situation is not unique to this case. It illustrates the stark reality faced by many scam victims, the legal and financial systems are ill-equipped or unwilling to offer timely restitution or support, leaving individuals to bear the burden of their losses.

  Law enforcement officials have offered advice to help prevent similar scams, such as verifying buyer credentials and payment methods. These precautions, while valuable, place the onus of fraud prevention squarely on the shoulders of individuals. For those who are already victims, this advice comes too late, highlighting the need for systemic changes to address the growing sophistication of online scams.

  The seller’s decision to pursue a civil suit against his insurer reflects his determination to seek justice, but it also shines a light on the lengthy and uncertain path many victims face when attempting to recover losses. For those who lack the resources or knowledge to navigate such processes, the outcome can be even more devastating.

  This story serves as a grim reminder of the risks involved in high-value online sales and the lack of safeguards for those who fall prey to fraud. Without robust protections and a more victim-centered approach from insurers and banks, scam victims will continue to find themselves in a precarious position, navigating a system that often leaves them with little recourse.

   
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  Geebo 9:00 am on December 9, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: AirTags ( 2 ), car theft ( 4 ), Facebook Marketplace, Scams ( 1,613 ), tracking device, used car ( 40 )   

  Scammers Hide Tracking Device in Car Purchase 

  

  By Greg Collier

  In an era where online marketplaces connect buyers and sellers across vast distances, convenience often comes with risk. A recent case in Colorado serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating just how sophisticated online scams can be, and how devastating their consequences.

  This unfortunate incident began when a local resident came across an ad for a pickup truck on Facebook Marketplace. The listing was detailed, the price seemed reasonable, and the seller appeared legitimate. Determined to finalize the deal, the buyer even flew to Texas to meet the seller in person. Everything about the transaction seemed above board. The documents matched, VINs checked out, and even the license plates appeared legitimate.

  After the truck was driven back to Colorado, the truth began to unravel when the buyer attempted to register the vehicle. A closer inspection by law enforcement revealed a complex web of fraud. The truck’s title had been ‘washed’, meaning it was illegally altered to remove critical information. The license plates were cloned from a legitimate vehicle, and most chillingly, a tracking device was discovered hidden in the vehicle.

  This tracking device revealed the scammers’ strategy After selling the stolen truck, they intended to locate it using the tracker and steal it back, leaving the unsuspecting buyer out thousands of dollars and without a vehicle. The truck, as it turned out, had been reported stolen, and its rightful ownership had already transferred to an insurance company.

  The scam underscores the increasingly elaborate lengths to which criminals will go to exploit online platforms.

  To avoid falling victim to such schemes, it’s crucial to approach online transactions with suspicion. Start by recognizing that deals that seem “too good to be true” often are. A significantly below-market price should be a red flag, especially for high-value items like vehicles.

  Whenever possible, avoid cash payments. Instead, use payment methods that provide a layer of protection, such as certified checks or escrow services.

  Always insist on meeting in a secure, public place like a police department. Many law enforcement agencies offer their parking lots as safe zones for transactions.

  Take steps to independently verify the legitimacy of any vehicle you plan to purchase. Request a detailed vehicle history report and ensure the title matches the VIN on all parts of the car. Utilize certified VIN inspectors to confirm the authenticity of the vehicle’s documentation. And remain wary of sellers who have excuses for missing items, such as spare keys or incomplete paperwork.

  Checking for hidden tracking devices in a used car is an essential step to ensure your safety and protect yourself from potential scams. Scammers often place these devices in inconspicuous areas of the vehicle to track its location after the sale. During your inspection, pay close attention to both the exterior and interior of the car. Examine areas such as the wheel wells, undercarriage, bumpers, and any compartments that might conceal a device. Inside the vehicle, inspect beneath seats, behind panels, and within storage areas for anything that looks unusual or out of place.

  To enhance your search, consider using a GPS scanner or a bug detector. These tools can detect signals emitted by tracking devices, providing an extra layer of assurance. It’s also wise to carefully review the vehicle’s wiring and electrical components, as some devices may be connected to the car’s battery or fuse box to maintain power.

  If you’re uncertain about conducting a thorough inspection yourself, seeking help from a professional is a prudent choice. Mechanics or automotive security specialists are well-equipped to check for hidden devices and can give you confidence in your purchase. Taking these precautions not only protects your investment but also ensures your personal safety and peace of mind when buying a used vehicle.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on October 4, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: Facebook Marketplace, healthcare ( 44 ), Mounjaro, online pharmacies ( 3 ), Ozempic ( 4 ), prescription drugs ( 5 ), Scams ( 1,613 ), Trulicity   

  Dangers of Buying Ozempic Online 

  

  By Greg Collier

  The rise of social media marketplaces has brought convenience to millions, allowing users to buy and sell just about anything from their mobile devices. But beneath the surface of these platforms lurks a troubling and dangerous trend. People are illegally reselling prescription medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro through places like Facebook Marketplace. This black-market trade isn’t just risky for your health, it’s outright illegal.

  Here’s why buying prescription drugs through platforms like Facebook is not only illegal but also potentially life-threatening.

  Let’s be clear, reselling or buying prescription medications without proper authorization is illegal. In New York, those caught selling prescription medications like Ozempic can face up to 15 years in prison. Buyers, although typically subject to lighter penalties, can still be slapped with misdemeanors, fines, and potentially jail time.

  So, why would people take such risks? Desperation and the lure of lower prices fuel this underground market. A legitimate month’s supply of Mounjaro can run between $1,000 and $1,200, but some sellers on Facebook Marketplace offer it for less than half the price. For many people struggling to afford their medications, it may seem like a shortcut, but it’s a dangerous one that could cost far more than the money saved.

  The dangers go far beyond the legal risks. Prescription medications like Ozempic, Mounjaro, and Trulicity are intended for specific medical conditions like Type 2 diabetes and must be closely monitored by healthcare professionals. These medications are not meant to be used casually for weight loss without proper oversight.

  Here’s where things get hazardous. The medications you’re buying online could be counterfeit or tampered with. Sellers can alter doses, repackage medications, or store them improperly, resulting in a product that might not only be ineffective but harmful.

  Even if you are lucky enough to get the real thing, buying from an unregulated source means you’re missing out on the critical medical supervision that should accompany these drugs. Weight loss medications like Ozempic can lead to serious side effects, including gallstones, muscle loss, and osteoporosis. Short-term issues like nausea and dehydration are also common. More importantly, patients on these drugs need regular monitoring to ensure that the treatment is effective and not causing harm.

  Another crucial consideration is that these medications are not meant for short-term use. They require ongoing treatment and supervision. Once you stop using them, there’s a good chance you’ll regain most, if not all, of the weight lost. Patients need to be monitored for side effects and require a doctor’s guidance to manage the complexities of these treatments.

  When you’re buying prescription medications from an unknown seller online, you forfeit this safety net. The seller isn’t going to care about your long-term health or whether you’re experiencing side effects. You’re on your own, with your wallet and potentially your health at risk.

  Even more worrying is the rise of bad actors on platforms like Facebook who use tactics like misspelling drug names or using nicknames to bypass automated compliance checks. While Facebook and other platforms actively remove illegal listings, sellers are constantly finding ways to stay one step ahead.

  These platforms might seem reputable, but buying prescription drugs on social media is no different from buying them off the street. There’s no way to guarantee what you’re getting, and you may not even know the correct dosage or volume of the medication you receive. It’s a dangerous gamble, with your health hanging in the balance.

  While the appeal of a cheaper supply of prescription drugs may be tempting, the risks are far too great. Buying medications like Ozempic through platforms like Facebook Marketplace exposes you to severe legal penalties and puts your health at serious risk. From counterfeit drugs to a lack of medical supervision, the consequences of such a decision could be life-altering.

  Always consult your healthcare provider before taking any prescription drug. There’s no shortcut to good health, and when it comes to your well-being, cutting corners can lead to devastating consequences.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on July 5, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: craigslist ( 129 ), Facebook Marketplace, impersonation scam ( 199 ), online shopping ( 40 ), Scams ( 1,613 ), shipping containers ( 2 )   

  Farmers scammed buying shipping containers 

  

  By Greg Collier

  An Arizona farm owner decided to expand their barn using shipping containers due to their durability and resistance to wind and water. Seeking convenience, they turned to online marketplaces like Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace to find suitable containers. Their search led them to a seller claiming to represent a company selling shipping containers.

  After researching the company and finding positive reviews, the buyer communicated with a man through Facebook Messenger. The man’s prompt responses and attentiveness built a sense of trust. However, when it came time to make the purchase, several red flags emerged.

  To proceed, nearly $2,700 needed to be paid upfront. The buyer preferred to pay with a credit card for added protection, but the man insisted on a check made out to an individual instead of the business. Although this raised suspicions, the man’s explanations seemed plausible, and the payment was made.

  The problems began when the delivery date approached. The buyer faced constant delays, excuses, and a demand for an additional $3,500 in insurance. Growing increasingly uneasy, they decided to contact the container company directly using the information on their official website.

  The response was a devastating blow. The real container company had no record of the order, invoice, or any knowledge of the man they were communicating with. The buyer had been dealing with scammers impersonating the legitimate company to defraud consumers on third-party websites.

  This experience highlights the importance of thorough verification when making large purchases. Here are key takeaways to protect yourself from similar scams.

  Always contact the company directly using information from their official website. Never rely solely on contact details provided by the seller.

  Be wary if a company insists on communicating only through messaging platforms. Legitimate businesses typically offer multiple communication channels, including phone and email.

  Whenever possible, pay with a credit card, which offers better fraud protection. Be cautious of sellers requesting payment through irreversible methods like cashier’s checks or wire transfers.

  Check reviews on multiple websites and search for any reports of scams or imposters. Include terms like “scam” or “fraud” in your search.

  If a seller pressures you to make a quick decision, take a step back. Consider your options carefully before committing.

  If you suspect you’ve fallen victim to a scam, report it immediately. Contact your local law enforcement and file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Prompt reporting can help authorities track and combat fraudulent activities.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on June 17, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: California ( 21 ), craigslist ( 129 ), Facebook Marketplace, geebo ( 22 ), government ( 2 ), legislation, Nancy Skinner, SB 1144   

  Proposed law punishes classifieds users 

  

  By Greg Collier

  The State of California, like many others nationwide, faces a significant retail theft problem. Shoplifting incidents now frequently make headlines, unlike in the past. Instead of addressing the root causes of this issue, a California State Senator has proposed legislation targeting classified sites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and Geebo.com, along with their users.

  California State Senator Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley) introduced SB 1144 to the state assembly last week. This bill aims to deter the sale of stolen items on online marketplaces by requiring these platforms to collect personal and financial information from frequent users. This includes bank account credentials, copies of valid driver’s licenses, and Social Security numbers.

  Although we at Geebo.com often critique the practices of Craigslist and Marketplace, we oppose this legislation. We believe it is both misguided and an overreach of government authority.

  Senator Skinner may think these proposals will stop the sale of stolen goods on online marketplaces, but in reality, everyday users will suffer the most. Many users have established businesses on these platforms, selling goods they bought wholesale from retailers going out of business or simply reducing inventory. These individuals will be unfairly targeted by SB 1144.

  Under this law, they would have to submit their personal and financial information just to sell a few used iPhones online. This puts users’ data at risk, especially given Facebook’s poor track record for protecting user information. We doubt Craigslist would fare any better.

  Furthermore, these proposals are unlikely to affect the sale of stolen goods from retail thefts online. Major theft rings would simply use information obtained from identity theft victims. Given the frequency of major data breaches, it wouldn’t be difficult for thieves to acquire such information.

  In conclusion, while addressing retail theft is crucial, SB 1144 imposes burdensome requirements on legitimate users of online marketplaces without effectively tackling the core issue. By shifting the focus from root causes to excessive data collection, the proposed legislation risks compromising user privacy and security. It’s essential to find balanced solutions that protect both consumers and businesses without overreaching government authority or jeopardizing personal information. We urge lawmakers to reconsider and develop more effective strategies that genuinely address retail theft without placing undue strain on everyday users and small businesses.

   
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  Geebo 8:02 am on May 30, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: craigslist ( 129 ), Facebook Marketplace, Scams ( 1,613 ), used car ( 40 ), vin cloning ( 4 )   

  Below-market vehicle deals are a growing scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  In recent times, there has been a noticeable increase in scams involving the sale of stolen vehicles online. These fraudulent schemes often take place on popular platforms like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist. The common thread among these scams is the suspiciously low price tag on the vehicles, which is significantly below their actual market value.

  The scam operates in a deceptive yet sophisticated manner. Criminals acquire a stolen vehicle and then search for another car with the same make, model, and similar mileage. They use the legitimate vehicle’s details to create a counterfeit VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) sticker, which is then applied to the stolen car. This fake VIN gives the vehicle a seemingly clean history, making it appear legitimate to unsuspecting buyers.

  Potential buyers are lured in by what they perceive to be an incredible deal. The vehicle’s history appears spotless, with no indication that it has been stolen. However, the reality of the situation becomes apparent only after the purchase is complete. Once the buyer discovers that the vehicle is stolen, they face the harsh truth that the car must be returned to its rightful owner or the insurance company. This leaves the buyer without the vehicle and out of the money they spent.

  The Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) has issued several warnings regarding this scam. According to the DFA, the largest red flag is the vehicle being sold for cash only at a price significantly lower than its actual value. Most recently, scammers have been targeting newer model pickup trucks, offering them for tens of thousands of dollars below retail value.

  The DFA advises buyers to exercise caution when searching for vehicles on these sites. Here are some key tips to avoid falling victim to this scam. Always verify the vehicle’s history through reliable sources. Be suspicious of any discrepancies or missing information. Legitimate sellers are usually open to various forms of payment. Insistence on cash transactions can be a red flag.

  Ensure the VIN on the vehicle matches the one on the title and other documents. Check for signs of tampering or replacement stickers. Consider using professional services to inspect the vehicle and verify its legitimacy before completing the purchase.

  By following these guidelines, buyers can better protect themselves from falling victim to these fraudulent activities. While online platforms offer the convenience of purchasing vehicles, they also present opportunities for scammers. Staying informed and cautious can help prevent unfortunate and costly mistakes.

  In summary, the public is urged to remain cautious when encountering seemingly fantastic deals on vehicles. Performing due diligence and recognizing the warning signs can save buyers from the pitfalls of this growing scam.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on April 22, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: Facebook Marketplace, rental car ( 6 ), Scams ( 1,613 ), vandalism ( 3 )   

  Is your car being listed for rent on Marketplace? 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Most of us are no strangers to the home rental scams that infest online classifieds. These scams involve fraudsters listing properties they don’t own, aiming to deceive unsuspecting renters into paying upfront fees like deposits or first month’s rent. Now, imagine that same scheme, but with cars as the target. That’s the crux of today’s narrative.

  In Broward County, Florida, several families have experienced unsettling encounters as strangers unexpectedly appeared at their doorsteps. These individuals believed they had rented cars from the residents, as advertised on Facebook Marketplace. However, upon the residents’ investigation, they discovered their vehicles listed for rent on the platform, unbeknownst to them. Similar to the notorious home rental scam, it’s suspected that the scammers have duped renters into paying upfront deposits under false pretenses.

  Unfortunately, in certain cases, when prospective renters are refused access, their frustration boils over and manifests in destructive acts directed towards the vehicles. Numerous residents have recounted instances where their cars fell victim to severe vandalism after they rejected individuals who had fallen prey to the scam. One family shared the distressing account of vandals wielding a monkey wrench against their car shortly after they turned away two men.

  Adding to the complexity is the allegation that Facebook/Meta is sluggish in addressing the fraudulent listings, if they address them at all. Despite the concerted efforts of affected residents to flag and remove these deceptive postings, many persist, exacerbating the cycle of victimization.

  If this scam is allowed to continue, how long will it be before someone turns their ire to the car’s owner? To effectively combat fraudulent listings like those plaguing Broward County, platforms like Facebook Marketplace should implement more stringent verification processes for users posting listings, particularly for high-value items like cars. This could include requiring additional forms of identification or proof of ownership before allowing listings to go live.

  They must also prioritize the swift removal of fraudulent listings once they are reported. Timely action is crucial to mitigate the impact on affected users and prevent further victimization.

  By implementing these measures, Marketplace can significantly reduce the prevalence of fraudulent listings and enhance the safety and trustworthiness of its platform.