Fake smartphone scam prompts Facebook Marketplace advice from Coquitlam RCMP

A large sign outside the Coquitlam RCMP building at 2986 Guildford Way indicates an area where video surveillance is always in operation. (Coquitlam RCMP)

Local police are adding their voices to a scam warning posted on a community Facebook group in B.C.'s Tri-Cities area.

The poster, who reported being scammed in a Facebook Marketplace transaction involving a fake smartphone, declined an interview with CTV News.

Coquitlam RCMP spokesperson Const. John Graham said he "often" sees such warnings online.

"It's good to remind people that these scams exist," Graham said in an email, before providing some tips for recognizing and avoiding Facebook Marketplace scams in the future.

First, Graham said, consider the deal being offered. If the price seems "too good to be true," the advertised item may be stolen, fake or non-existent.

"Do not pay for the item before you meet the seller and see the item in person," he said. "Some sellers will ask for payment in advance, there is really no need to do so and it should raise red flags."

He advised would-be buyers to "take a close look at the seller's profile and look for signs of legitimacy." A name or profile photo that helps hide their identity could be a problem, as could a lack of sales history or a poor or non-existent review rating.

Doing a quick online search for scams involving the product on offer can help potential buyers recognize the hallmarks of a scam and evaluate the legitimacy of a specific Marketplace post, Graham said.

"When you do arrange to meet, choose a safe meeting spot location such as your local police station," he added.

"The Coquitlam RCMP, for example, has an 'Exchange Zone' as a buying and selling meeting spot outside of the detachment, located at 2986 Guildford Way, Coquitlam. A person looking to commit a criminal offence will very likely not wish to meet at a police station."