DERBY LINE — A home for sale in Derby Line was recently used in an online housing scam that left one victim losing over $8,000. Police are warning the public to beware of housing scammers targeting local real estate.
Police say that the scam took place through Craigslist, an online classifieds website.
The victim had been searching Craigslist for houses to rent or buy in the area. Once she showed interest via email, she was contacted and asked to send money through MoneyGram to Michigan.
The house in question is a legitimate residence for sale in Derby Line, but it was not the owners requesting the money. The scammer had no connection to the property.
Authorities say that the victim is now out $8,568. Police are currently investigating the case.
The property, located at 413 Elm Street, is legitimately listed online as a 1,296 square foot home, with 3 beds and 1 bath, priced at $129,900.
The Vermont State Police are urging the public not to send money via MoneyGram without fully investigating it. They are reminding the public to never give out your account information or your social security number.
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