Urgent Warning: Gardai Alert on Facebook Marketplace Scammers

URGENT UPDATE: Gardai in Meath have issued an immediate warning about a rising wave of fake invoice scammers targeting sellers on platforms like Facebook Marketplace. This alert comes as scammers are increasingly employing deceptive tactics to acquire items without payment.

Scammers are approaching individuals selling goods on sites such as DoneDeal and Adverts, claiming to have paid for items. They send fake proof of payment that appears legitimate but does not result in any actual transfer of funds. This alarming trend was highlighted by Gardai today, who stated:

“We would like to remind the public to be aware of a scam where persons make contact about items people are selling on sites like Facebook Marketplace, DoneDeal, etc., and send on proof of payment that is not legitimate to the seller.”

These scammers often mimic emails from reputable payment services, such as PayPal, to convince sellers that payment has been made. However, in reality, no money has been transferred. Gardai strongly advise sellers to:

Always double-check your account to confirm the money has actually been sent before handing over goods. They emphasize, “Do not hand over any item without ensuring payment is received.”

This warning comes during a surge in online transactions as more people turn to digital marketplaces for buying and selling goods. With the holiday season approaching, the urgency to safeguard against such scams is greater than ever.

As of now, no specific incidents have been reported in Meath, but the potential for fraud remains high. Sellers are urged to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity to local authorities.

What to Watch For: If you are using online marketplaces, ensure you verify all payments before proceeding with transactions. Stay informed and protect your sales by sharing this warning with others.

For continuous updates and breaking news, follow our Dublin Live service on WhatsApp. Share this critical information with friends and family to help prevent scams in your community.