Fruita, Colorado Police Say This Facebook Scam Is Extra Costly

It’s peak summer in Colorado, and the time of year when plenty of people in Fruita and Grand Junction are buying cars.

If you are shopping on Facebook Marketplace, however, the Fruita Police would like you to shop carefully.  According to a story shared by KKXO News 11, one family recently lost $30,000 in a single transaction. Investigators are using the case to remind anyone about some red flags to watch for when shopping online.

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What Is the Scam, and How Did It Work in Fruita?

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Fruita police say the victim found a vehicle listed on Facebook Marketplace and began discussions with the seller via text. KJCT8 reports that payment was sent, but authorities say the vehicle was never delivered, suggesting the listing or the seller was fraudulent.

Five Facebook Marketplace Red Flags to Watch For

Police say scammers online often copy legitimate listings and use them to create fake ones. Once they have an interested party asking questions, the pressure starts. Before you know it, they want the money. People think they might lose the deal to someone else and send the money without verifying that the seller owns the vehicle, and without seeing it in person.

Police say buyers should slow down any time they see one of the following red flags:

• The seller refuses to meet in person.
• They insist on immediate payment.
• The price seems too good to be true.
• They only communicate through text.
• The seller claims they're out of town, deployed, or unable to show the vehicle.

How Fruita Police Say You Can Protect Yourself

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If you want to buy a vehicle that you see online, the Fruita Police and your mom would want you to inspect the vehicle in person before offering any payment. The FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center recommends that you confirm the seller’s identity. Confirm the VIN and discuss payment methods that offer fraud protection before you make a decision. Avoid wiring money, and take your time. If something feels off, trust your instincts.