Bryan Police Warn of Increase In Facebook Marketplace Scams

Scam Alert graphic

The Bryan Police Department is warning residents of an increase in Facebook Marketplace scams. The scams involve both buyers and sellers.

Before you buy or sell, watch for these warning signs:

  • The Facebook profile has very few photos or little personal information.
  • Someone says a friend or family member wants the item but doesn’t have Facebook and will contact you by phone.
  • The phone number isn’t a local 979 number. (Keep in mind that some scammers do use 979 numbers, so this is only one possible warning sign.)
  • The person paying you uses a different name than the one on their Facebook profile, or they ask you to send money to someone with a different name.
  • They ask for your email address so they can send a payment through Zelle, Chime, or another payment service. Scammers often create fake emails that look like they’re from these companies to trick you into clicking links or calling fake customer service numbers.

Protect Yourself:

  • Never send money before meeting them in person.
  • Meet in a busy public place with security cameras whenever possible.
  • Consider using the Bryan Police Department Safe Exchange Zone for your transaction.

If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts. It’s better to walk away than become the victim of a scam.

 

More News