City of Kawartha Lakes OPP is warning residents to use caution when buying livestock or goods through social media platforms following a recent online fraud investigation.
Police say a local resident was defrauded while attempting to purchase poultry through a Facebook buy-and-sell group.
According to investigators, the victim arranged to buy three Black Copper Marans chickens from a seller using the profile name “Thomas Daystar.” The buyer sent a $60 e-transfer before being directed to a pickup location on Chambers Road in Fenelon Township.
When the victim arrived, police say the address had no connection to the suspect and the sale was determined to be fraudulent.
Investigators say the Facebook post has since been removed and officers are continuing efforts to identify the individual or individuals connected to the profile.
Police are reminding residents to be cautious when making purchases online, especially when sellers request immediate payment through e-transfers before items can be verified in person.
The OPP also advises buyers to research seller profiles carefully, verify pickup locations independently and report suspicious activity to both group administrators and social media platforms.
Anyone with information about the investigation, or who may have had similar interactions involving the “Thomas Daystar” profile, is asked to contact the City of Kawartha Lakes OPP at 1-888-310-1122.
