Law enforcement officials in Prince George’s County, Maryland, are advising residents to use heightened caution when buying or selling items online during the busy holiday season. With increased activity on digital marketplaces such as Facebook Marketplace, police warn that scams and unsafe in-person meetups can escalate quickly if proper precautions are not taken.
Officer Chaudlier Shepherd emphasized that verifying the identity of the person involved in a transaction is one of the most critical steps consumers can take. Police recommend reviewing profile details carefully, including photos and account history, to determine whether the profile appears legitimate. Whenever possible, residents are encouraged to confirm contact information, such as calling a provided phone number, to ensure the individual is real before agreeing to meet or exchange money.
Authorities strongly discourage meeting strangers alone. Bringing a trusted friend or family member to any in-person exchange can provide an added level of safety and help identify warning signs that may otherwise be missed. Police also advise residents to rely on their instincts, particularly when an offer seems unusually attractive. Unrealistic pricing is often a sign of fraudulent activity or a setup designed to place someone in a vulnerable situation.
Officer Shepherd noted that deals that appear too good to be true should immediately raise concern. He explained that extremely low prices on high-value items are frequently used by scammers to lure victims into unsafe encounters or financial loss.
To further reduce risk, police encourage residents to conduct transactions at local police stations whenever possible. Many departments allow exchanges to take place in station parking lots or inside public lobby areas, and in some cases, officers may be present nearby during the transaction. This added visibility can serve as a deterrent and provide peace of mind for both buyers and sellers.
Law enforcement is also reminding residents to remain alert when purchasing gift cards, which are commonly targeted by scammers during the holidays. Although police have not observed a recent increase in gift card tampering in Prince George’s County, shoppers are urged to inspect cards carefully before purchasing them. Any cards that appear scratched, altered, or damaged should be returned immediately, as scammers can sometimes drain the balance before the card is sold.
Officials stress that many scams still begin through phone calls, emails, text messages, or online communications. Residents are encouraged to pause, verify information, and report any suspicious activity to authorities. For additional guidance or to report a suspected scam, residents can contact the Prince George’s County Police Department.
