Police warn of male scammer on Gumtree website Reports of a series of scams on the website affecting people across Australia including Victoria date back to June last year. POLICE are searching for a scammer who has targeted more than 300 people on the Gumtree website in the past year. A male scam artist searches the wanted advertisements on site and then contacts the poster to say he has the item they are seeking. The man then asks where the buyer lives and states he also lives nearby, but is working interstate so is unable to drop the goods off in person. Once the money is transferred to his account he ceases contact. The scams have involved the attempted purchase of goods including mobile phones, iPads, electronic tablets and gift cards from stores including Coles, Myer and JB Hifi. Police spokeswoman Natalie Webster said the man often provided documents such as a passport and drivers licence in order to alleviate buyers concerns. "A price and terms are negotiated with the male forwarding his bank details, most commonly for ANZ, Westpac, St George or Bendigo banks," Ms Webster said. Police would like to hear from anyone in Victoria who has been the victim of similar fraud, and are warning people to do thorough research before committing to providing funds. Reports of online scams can also be made to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission via www.scamwatch.gov.au. Anyone with information can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppers.com.au.