Buyer/seller beware: safety tips for online transactions

Marketplace robbery suspect in Windsor, Ont. (Source: WPS)

Windsor and Essex County Crime Stoppers are looking for suspects and outlining safety tips after recent online purchase exchanges went wrong.

One case in Windsor on April 16, involved a marketplace robbery where a buyer, identified by the alias Michael Gonyea, met a victim to purchase a cellphone advertised online.

After a brief interaction, police say the suspect assaulted the victim, pushing them to the ground, and fled with the stolen phone. The suspect is described as a black male, approximately 20-25 years old, with a slender build, who was wearing a grey hoodie and ripped jeans at the time.

A separate scam involved a fake e-transfer.

“The victim received an e-transfer for the agreed amount, but upon a checking his bank account realized that there was no money actually transfer to his account. And at that time, the offender had fled the zone,” said Crime Stoppers coordinator Const. Jamie Fummerton.

To ensure safer online transactions, police are offering the following tips for buyers and sellers:

• Meet in Safe Locations: Conduct all exchanges in public, well-lit areas or designated safe exchange zones:

1. Windsor – Collision Reporting Centre – 2696 Jefferson Blvd
2. LaSalle – Police Headquarters 1880 Normandy St
3. OPP – Tecumseh Detatchment – 963 Lesperance

• Verify Item Condition: Buyers should thoroughly inspect the item to ensure it is in working order before finalizing the purchase.
• Confirm Payment: Sellers should always confirm that payment has been received and is accessible before releasing the item.

If you suspect you are being scammed:

• Do Not Proceed: If you feel uncertain or uncomfortable about a deal, it is best to disengage.
• Verify Legitimacy: Take additional steps to confirm the identity of the other party and the authenticity of the transaction.
• Report Incidents: If you become a victim of a scam or crime, report it to your local police service and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
• Share Information: If you possess information regarding the identity of a scammer, you can contact law enforcement or Crime Stoppers anonymously at catchcrooks.com or [phone].