DeRidder police probe Facebook Marketplace washer-dryer scam

DERIDDER, La. (WNTZ) – The DeRidder Police Department is investigating an ongoing scam involving a fraudulent washer and dryer sale on Facebook Marketplace.

According to authorities, multiple individuals have sent money to an account listed as “Jade Hunt” in exchange for the appliances, but the items were never delivered. Police have reported the account to Facebook as a scam and urge anyone who may have been victimized to contact the department at 337-462-8911. The investigation remains ongoing.

Red Flags to Watch For

Officials warn that Facebook Marketplace scams are common and encourage residents to be cautious when buying or selling online. Common red flags include:

• Unrealistically low prices
• Sellers refusing to meet in person
• Requests for communication outside of Facebook Messenger
• Prepaid shipping label offers
• Overpayment scams
• New or incomplete profiles
• Requests for personal or financial information
• Unusual payment methods
• Broken or misrepresented high-ticket items

How to Protect Yourself

The DeRidder Police Department offers the following tips to avoid falling victim to online scams:

• Use Facebook Messenger for Communication: Stay within the platform’s secure messaging system.
• Meet in Public Places: Arrange transactions in well-lit, public locations.
• Inspect Items Before Paying: Ensure the product matches the seller’s description before exchanging money.
• Verify Seller or Buyer Profiles: Check for missing photos, recent account creation, or limited activity.
• Trust Your Instincts: If an offer seems too good to be true, it likely is.
• Use Secure Payment Methods: Avoid gift cards, wire transfers, or unusual payment requests.
• Document Transactions: Keep records of messages, screenshots, and payment confirmations.
• Report Suspicious Activity: Notify Facebook and local law enforcement if you suspect fraudulent activity.
• Contact Your Payment Provider: If scammed, alert your bank or payment provider to attempt fund recovery.

For further information or to report potential scams, residents are encouraged to contact the DeRidder Police Department.