FARMERSBURG— Following a recent criminal investigation and felony arrest involving an online sale, the Indiana State Police (ISP) are urging the public to exercise heightened caution when buying or selling items on digital platforms like Facebook Marketplace.
The warning comes after an extensive investigation by the ISP Bloomington District led to the arrest of a 40-year-old Monroe County woman on a Level 6 felony charge of theft. Investigators say the suspect listed an outdoor mini-barn on Facebook Marketplace for $3,500. After receiving the full payment, the seller allegedly ceased all communication with the buyers and failed to deliver the structure, which had already been repossessed by a third-party company.
Red Flags to Watch For
Public Information Officer Sgt. Matt Ames with the Indiana State Police Putnamville Post highlighted key indicators that a transaction may be fraudulent:
- Pushy Demands to Change Platforms: Be wary if a buyer or seller insists on moving communication off Facebook Marketplace to a different app or messaging service. “If they ask you to go to a different platform and they become very pushy, that means that they’re trying to get you to make a bad decision,” Sgt. Ames warned.
- Pressure Tactics: Scammers often attempt to create artificial urgency so buyers skip standard verification steps. Buyers are advised to slow down, check user references, and consult friends or family who have experience using online marketplaces.
Safety Recommendations for Buyers
State police recommend following several key safety precautions before handing over money for online purchases:
- Opt for Cash in Person: Cash remains the safest payment method when conducting transactions in person. ISP advises avoiding wire transfers, cryptocurrency, and instant-transfer apps (such as Venmo or PayPal) when dealing with unknown individuals.
- Request Custom Proof of Ownership: If an in-person meeting isn’t immediately possible, ask the seller to send a photo of the item next to a handwritten note containing the current date or your name to prove they physically possess the item.
- Meet in Safe Exchange Zones: Always conduct in-person transactions in well-lit, public areas. Many local police departments and sheriff’s offices offer designated “Safe Exchange” parking areas or lobbies equipped with surveillance cameras.
