Police Probe Social Media Scam After Nurse Loses Money Online

Police are investigating a case of online fraud after a Belize City nurse reported being scammed while attempting to purchase a television through social media.  Fifty-three-year-old Margaret Trapp told investigators that earlier in January she came across a Facebook account called “Electronica Belize” advertising a 32-inch smart television for $185. After contacting the seller via Messenger, she agreed to purchase the item and was instructed to pay an additional $18 for shipping.  According to her report, she was provided with an Atlantic Bank account in the name of Karen Renee Lopez and was told the television would be delivered once payment was made. On January 29, Trapp deposited a total of $203 at the bank’s Freetown Road branch.  However, up to the time of making the report on Saturday evening, she had not received the television or a refund, and the seller reportedly stopped responding to messages.  Police say the matter is being treated as a case of obtaining property by deception and are reminding the public to exercise caution when making purchases through social media platforms, especially when dealing with unfamiliar sellers.