Residents and sellers coming to Harrisburg are urged to exercise caution when selling vehicles, ATVs, dirt bikes, and similar items through online marketplaces or private sales.

Recent incidents have shown an increase in theft and fraudulent activity targeting sellers during meetups. Criminals may pose as legitimate buyers to gain access to vehicles or arrange unsafe meeting conditions.

Safety Tips for Sellers:

*Meet in Public Places: Always arrange to meet buyers in well-lit, busy, public areas where there are others around, such as shopping or retail store parking lots, or designated safe exchange zones.

*Never Meet Alone: Bring a friend or family member with you during the transaction. Ask to record the transaction and record ID before allowing any allocations of keys.

*Verify Buyer Identity:  Ask for valid identification and be cautious of buyers unwilling to provide basic information.

*Avoid Test Drive Risks: Riding ATVs or dirt bikes is illegal on public roadways and in public parks within Harrisburg City limits. Do not allow test drives; to show working status, consider turning on the vehicle yourself. 

*Secure Payment: Accept secure forms of payment—avoid large cash transactions when possible.

*Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, cancel the meeting immediately.

Report Suspicious Activity

If you encounter suspicious behavior or believe you have been targeted, contact local law enforcement immediately.

Your safety is more important than any sale. Stay alert, stay aware, and help keep our community safe.