Warning: Surge in Facebook Scams Targets Local Communities
Ardee News and Sport – Warning: Surge in Facebook Scams Targets Local Communities
An alarming increase in scam activity on Facebook is causing distress in communities, with fraudsters using multiple social media accounts to sell the same products to unsuspecting buyers. One recent incident in Louth Village highlights the growing danger.
A scammer reportedly advertised a dressing table for sale, collecting deposits via Revolut from four different buyers. Each buyer was told the seller couldn’t facilitate collection immediately due to work commitments and was asked to pick up the item at 3 p.m. the following day.
Suspicion arose when one buyer visited the address provided by the scammer. To their shock, the young couple living there had no knowledge of the transaction and were completely uninvolved. The concerned buyer warned the couple that multiple people might show up at their home expecting to collect the item.
The seller provided the following Revolut information to buyers.
In another scam reported on a community page, a set of alloy wheels was falsely advertised by four different accounts using identical photos and prices.
Authorities and local groups are urging residents to remain vigilant. Under no circumstances should buyers send deposits via Revolut, PayPal, or other payment methods before physically inspecting the items.
If you suspect you’ve been targeted by a scam, report the incident immediately to the Gardaí and the social media platform involved. Stay safe, and always prioritise face-to-face transactions to avoid falling victim to these deceptive schemes.