The Hills Police Area Command once again issues a warning to the community about the risks relating to the selling of high-value items, such as Apple iPhones, on online marketplaces, such as Facebook, following an incident on Tuesday, 24 September.
According to Police, a victim purchased a new Apple iPhone from an Apple Store and listed it on sale on Facebook Marketplace later that afternoon.
The next day, 25 September, the victim then received a message from an individual expressing interest in the iPhone. The two arranged to meet at a public location for safety reasons.
During the meeting, the victim was looking through his own phone for the receipt when the person of interest grabbed the iPhone, which was in an Apple bag.
Both the iPhone and the victim’s phone fell to the ground. As the victim attempted to retrieve his phone, he saw the person of interest running away with the iPhone. The person of interest fled to a silver or white car, similar to a Toyota Rav 4.
The victim chased the car and managed to open the rear door, but the car swerved, forcing him to let go.
The Hills PAC shares the following safety recommendations when conducting similar exchanges or transactions, especially with high-value items such as smartphones:
- Meet in Safe Locations: Always arrange to meet buyers in well-lit, public places with surveillance cameras, such as police stations or shopping centres.
- Bring a Friend: Never go alone to meet a buyer. Having someone with you can deter potential thieves.
- Verify Buyer Information: Try to gather as much information as possible about the buyer before meeting.
- Avoid Showing Receipts: Do not display receipts or other personal information during the transaction.
- Stay Alert: Be aware of your surroundings and keep the item you are selling secure until the transaction is complete.
Hills Police urges residents to exercise caution when selling items online and to report any suspicious activity immediately.
