WA Police have issued a warning for online sellers to vigilant after a spate of dodgy market place deals where thieves have feigned an interest in buying goods only to find out the address to rob later on.
Inspector Geoff DeSanges on Monday said criminals are picking homes to target for robberies using photos posted online or they will contact sellers of a high-value item under the pretext of buying it — just to get the address.
“Selling items online can be a quick and easy way to dispose of items,” he said.
“However this approach brings some dangers, not all buyers are legitimate.”
Insp. DeSanges said that once offenders find out where an item was stored, it was becoming increasingly common for them to show up at homes later to steal the goods.
“This has been the case in recent months in the Midland area in particular, where several victims have had motorcycles stolen,” he said.
He urged online sellers to be extra cautious when selling online.
“Make sure the photo you post online does not identify your address,” he said.
“If you need to meet a potential buyer in person, assess the risk first.“Consider the time, place and vulnerabilities.
“Choose a safe public place where there is good lighting and possibly CCTV cameras. Do not choose a location that is dark or isolated and always take someone else with you.”
Insp. DeSanges also warned sellers to be vigilant when returning home, and to make sure no one followed them. “Where possible, do not meet anyone in your own home, particularly when selling items of high interest or high value,” he said.