Harford County Police Warn Of Facebook Marketplace Scam Involving Stolen Vehicles

HAVRE DE GRACE - The Harford County Sheriff's Office is investigating a trend of vehicles purchased on Facebook Marketplace being stolen the very next day.

People shopping for affordable cars on Facebook Marketplace are getting lured into buying a vehicle that has already been stolen in another state.

According to the Harford County Criminal Investigations Division, this is how the scam works:

1. A buyer sees a vehicle they want to purchase on Facebook Marketplace, usually listed for well below market value.
2. The buyer travels to a public location to complete the transaction and heads back home in their new car.
3. The purchased car has often already been reported as stolen in a different state.
4. The next day, the seller or an associate steals the newly purchased vehicle and drives off.
5. The seller or thief may re-list the car soon after stealing it back.

Harford County Sheriff's Office recommends only purchasing vehicles from licensed dealers or someone you know.

"While a great deal on the internet might seem to be too good to pass up, it is best to buy a vehicle from a licensed dealership or someone you know. If you are buying from a stranger, don't carry a lot of cash, and remember, If it seems too good to be true, it probably is."