Police issue advice on selling items through social media

A trend in thefts has prompted police to issue a warning, and some guidance today. This is in respect of people advertising items for sale via social media platforms.

Whilst police acknowledge the benefits of advertising things for sale online, they’ve also urged people to be mindful of what information is passed on, and at what stage in the sale process this is done.

Over time, police have come across thefts being made after people have put items up for sale, and after having given out personal information.

If you are contacted by someone showing an interest in anything you’re selling, always do a quick check before replying.  Some things to look out for would be newly created profiles, or profiles holding very little information. In addition, profiles with little or no followers could indicate the person having a fake account. Only once you’re confident that the profile and person is genuine should you give specific information about your location. If in any doubt though, perhaps ask someone you trust for their opinion.

Our thanks go to Test Valley Police for sharing this information via their own social page.