Caution: Thieves Preying on "Offerup" Users

[John_S_in_Penna]

I have never used the program, but a recent news story

says to beware of "Offerup."  It's a for-sale method where

buyer and seller can meet, but the story says there is

a disproportionately large incidence of thieves 

making use of it to rob their victims.

 

I believe one person (not a seller) posted a link to an

Offerup ad for an old car, here on our Forum.

 

Here's the story:  

http://dennismichaellynch.com/thieves-using-popular-online-marketplace-app-to-lure-victims/

Edited December 21, 2017 by John_S_in_Penna (see edit history)

[60FlatTop]

I heard about a trap that was set for Riviera owners down in one of those southern states. Back off the road, just on the edge of the woods was a temping little piece of eye candy to attract them. The good old boys had a hook on the tree and on cloudy gray days they would hide in the shadows........ Yep, snatch those Buick guys up like a gator goes for Bambi.

 

Might have been Georgia, kinda remember that.

Bernie

Edited December 21, 2017 by 60FlatTop (see edit history)

[John_S_in_Penna]

Here's a link to a topic in the Buick Buy-Sell

section where "Offerup" cars are offered:

 

 

[Peter J.Heizmann]

7 hours ago, John_S_in_Penna said:

 

I believe one person (not a seller) posted a link to an

Offerup ad for an old car, here on our Forum.

Have any idea where or when?  Or are you guessing?  Do a "search" and dig up the link if you find it so we can check with the poster for their experience.

[John_S_in_Penna]

Peter, check the link in Posting #1 above for the article,

and in Posting #3 for the forum offering.

You're kind to others, I hope;  be kind to me.  Remember

the spirit of Christmas!

Edited December 22, 2017 by John_S_in_Penna (see edit history)

[Peter J.Heizmann]

27 minutes ago, John_S_in_Penna said:

Peter, check the link in Posting #1 above for the article,

and in Posting #3 for the forum offering.

You're kind to others--be kind to me.  Remember Christmas!

John,  I was just confused when you stated "I believe one person"...  So, E Pad must be the guy.  

 

Agree that the danger is there however it is so common via Craigslist, Facebook, etc.,   Goes on daily unfortunately.  Look at all the police stations that have Safe Areas at the station to meet a potential buyer and seller while under watch.

[John_S_in_Penna]

I just learned something!  I didn't realize that

some police stations actually set aside areas for

citizens to meet.  Thanks for pointing that out, Peter.

 

I had never even heard of Offerup until one user

on our Forum posted links to it.

[Peter J.Heizmann]

9 minutes ago, John_S_in_Penna said:

I just learned something!  I didn't realize that

some police stations actually set aside areas for

citizens to meet.  Thanks for pointing that out, Peter.

 

I had never even heard of Offerup until one user

on our Forum posted links to it.

Various police stations around here have them and across the U.S. of A.  Sorry situation but sign of the times.

[plymouthcranbrook]

I am so old that I can remember going to peoples houses with a good amount of cash to buy a used car. Now I hardly trust anyone.  

[bobg1951chevy]

42 minutes ago, John_S_in_Penna said:

I just learned something!  I didn't realize that

some police stations actually set aside areas for

citizens to meet.  Thanks for pointing that out, Peter.

 

I had never even heard of Offerup until one user

on our Forum posted links to it.

Our town has a designated area, at the police station ........ with several video camera focused on that specific area.