The Chapel Hill Police Department is warning community members against scams around campus parking spots.

On Thursday, the department tweeted they’d received two reports from community members about the scam, which originated from an advertisement on Facebook.

The Facebook ad reportedly described the offer as “student parking.” Scam victims paid around $800 for what they thought was a semester-long parking spot within walking distance of campus.

“We know students are busy with the excitement of a new semester,” said Chapel Hill Police Assistant Chief Celisa Lehew in a statement to Chapelboro. “Unfortunately, scammers see this as an opportunity to catch them off guard. We don’t want anyone to lose their money.”

The department is advising anyone considering paying for private parking to verify the property owner’s identity. If the owner won’t meet in person or agree to a contract, police suggest against doing business with them.

Lehew also advised anyone who believes they are a victim of the scam to keep evidence of conversations and report it to the police. The department can be reached at 919-968-2760. Additionally, you can report scams online here.

 

Featured image via Chapel Hill Police

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