Warning about Facebook Scam

Local law enforcement is warning about a popular scam on Facebook.  Victims report that once an account has been hacked the hackers will post items for sale, these items include household goods, tools, and even animals.  Once someone shows interest in an item the hacker will request a deposit be put down on the item via Cash App or PayPal.  An address will be provided to the buyer; however, in most cases, the address is either a vacant lot or an abandoned house.  Typically, the original account holder will not know they have been hacked or that their account had been cloned until they are contacted by the buyer requesting the item they put the deposit down on.  In some cases, the original account holder is completely locked out of their account due to the hacker changing the email and or password.  It has also been reported that the Cash App and PayPal accounts being used are created using false information and the money can’t be recovered.  If you have a friend on Facebook who reaches out to you selling items, contact that friend in person or by phone to confirm the sale is real.  Make sure you also contact the social media provider if you believe you may have been scammed.  Always use caution and never share financial information over social media.