Television sale scam sees buyers defrauded in Cumbernauld

Anyone who randomly is asked if they would like to buy a television is being warned not to engage with the seller - because it is a scam.

Cumbernauld Police have two cases of the con on their books and they fear that more have gone unreported after the victims opted not to come forward.

The Cumbernauld News has had reason to report on the fraudulent sale of these items in recent years but it remains a live issue, according to communities inspector Neil MacLeod

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He confirmed that one incident took place in Westerwood on Friday, November 13 and the second in Carbrain on Monday, November 23.

In both cases, the televisions were removed from the back of a van - with the seller boasting that they are getting a knockdown deal on a state-of-the-art model.

The dodgy trade often flourishes in areas like industrial estates or larger scale car parks .

The communities inspector said: “ People are being convinced that the televisions are legitimate and have paid cash for what has the appearance of a bargain only to find when they open up the box on their return home that the tv inside is visibly broken and in fact is nothing like the brand on the box.

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“This is one of these occasions where the deal looks too good to be true and that is found very much to be the case. Both reported incidents are being treated as fraud and enquiries are ongoing to trace those responsible.

“And there are other reports of similar incidents across Lanarkshire.

Anyone who has information on those responsible should contact police on 101 quoting crime reference number NC01711120.