Facebook Marketplace Housing Scam Leaves Bolivians Devastated

Facebook Marketplace Rental Scam in Bolivia: Victims Lose Thousands Santa Cruz, Bolivia- A wave of fraud is sweeping across Bolivia, targeting those seeking affordable housing on Facebook Marketplace. Victims are losing their life savings after paying for anticréticos (rent-to-own properties) that don't exist. One woman, identified only as Maria, shared her ordeal: "I transferred 35,000 Bolivianos, my life savings, and I received nothing. Now, I don't even have money for my daughter's medicine." Maria's daughter found the fraudulent listing. Police have arrested a suspect, but the victims fear he will be released before their funds are returned. Authorities are urging caution when using online platforms for property searches. The scale of the fraud, impacting nearly 108 people, underscores the need for heightened awareness and safer online transactions.