WASHINGTON — Smartphone apps make it easier than ever to buy and sell items, but they also make it easier to become a victim of crime.
Two Anne Arundel County teenagers drove to Capitol Heights, Maryland, after seeing a post for a dirt bike on the OfferUp classified ad app.
When they arrived, the supposed sellers pulled out guns and robbed the victims.
Prince George’s County police have arrested two suspects for the Feb. 6 robbery — 22-year-old Tyrone Strickland Jr. and 36-year-old Andre Speller, both of Capitol Heights.
Police say criminals are using the popular classified app to lure victims into potentially dangerous situations.
The department says it is investigating at least seven such cases in recent months.
In a news release, the Prince George’s County police offer safety tips:
- Never go alone to the transaction location. Always try to bring a second person with you.
- It’s best to talk to potential seller or buyer on the phone. Do not communicate only through an app or online.
- Only meet a potential buyer or seller in a public place — such as a shopping center.
- Trust your instincts. If the deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
- Unless the item is too large to bring out of your home, never invite a buyer to your home.
