Doing a bit of post Christmas shopping? 

Police are urging people to be cautious when it comes to buying good listed for sale on social media.

"Our advice is to always be vigilant when shopping via social media," said a police spokesperson in a post on Faacebook.

"We’re seeing the same common tactics, which offenders use to lure in victims, including specifically requesting the victim bring cash for the sale, or requesting the buyer to come to the seller’s home address to purchase the item.

"We’re also seeing an increase of alleged buyers providing a fake home address to the victim."

Police have several suggestions for people looking to buy or sell online:

- First and foremost, we recommend using a reputable online site to buy or sell items.

- Check the social media profile of the seller. Is it a new profile or relatively blank? There's a chance it may be a fake profile.

- If the trader insists on meeting at a public place or unusual location to make a sale, be cautious. It may be that they are selling stolen items or don't want to be identified for some other reason.

- Equally, if purchasers are reluctant to meet in person or insist items are dropped off at a location, they may be avoiding being seen or identified.

- Purchasers who are happy to pay full price without trying to negotiate.

- If you are the seller, make sure the money is in your account before sending or handing off items.

- As the saying goes: if it is too good to be true, it probably is.

If you wish to report a social media scam, contact Police on 105 or report it online at 105.police.govt.nz

Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.