Police warn Facebook users of marketplace scammers

DUNWOODY, Ga. - Dunwoody Police said at least four local Facebook users were victimized by scammers as they attempted to sell furniture and electronics on the social media site, and authorities have tied the crimes to a particular Facebook user and account.

Authorities say there could be plenty more victims in the Metro who have been the targets of the Facebook account. Police warn people to beware the user "Alekhya Sudula," who may represent one scammer or multiple people. Victims reported to police they lost several hundred or several thousand dollars. 

"It's four thousand dollars I lost," said Venkata Surya Alamuri. "I'm really angry--
this is my hard earned money," he said, who tells FOX 5, the suspect responded to his post in a Facebook group to sell a television, and she agreed to pay $130. 

Alamuri said the suspect requested his bank account information, and deposited $1,300 instead; after the suspect informed Alamuri of the "mistake," he tells FOX 5 he tried to refund her twice.

Alamuri told police, once he realized he gave her thousands of dollars, she disappeared.

Police said other victims reported funds being withdrawn from their bank account after giving it to the scammer.

Facebook tells FOX 5 in a statement, buyers nor sellers should ever  disclose their financial information.

"It's better to meet in a safe location," said Officer Anwar Sillah of Dunwoody Police. Police also advise Facebook users to utilize their local police departments as a point of transaction. 

Anyone who believes they could be a victim of the Facebook account is asked to contact Dunwoody Police or their local jurisdiction.