Armadale District police have issued a warning to Facebook Marketplace users after a recent spate of burglaries linked to ads.

Crime Inspector Inspector Brett Ranford said two dirt bikes were stolen from Byford, with clever crooks creating false profiles on Facebook, feigning interest in what you’re selling, then obtaining your address and visiting homes to steal items when they know owners are out.

“Unfortunately once in possession of your address, then you become open to whatever criminal activity might be on the mind of these crooks,” he told Gareth Parker on 6PR Breakfast on Tuesday.

“They could come around if they’re super cautious and a bit organised, case your premises out for dogs, CCTV, neighbours, or pretty much if they know where you live they can come around any time, kick your garage door in at 3am, which was the case in this instance (of the motorbikes).

Press PLAY to hear how to protect yourself if advertising on Facebook Marketplace or Gumtree