SHOPLIFTERS are using Launceston-based social media sites to sell stolen goods, The Examiner can reveal.
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It's unclear how widespread the problem is but the prevalence of social media combined with a spike in shoplifting is causing a headache for Launceston retailers.
The Examiner is also aware of sites where thieves post steal-to-order requests for buyers. These sites did not respond to questions put by The Examiner.
Administrators of other Facebook sites say they are aware of the problems and monitor them as best they can.
The popular Launceston Buy Swap & Sell Facebook group, which has more than 15,500 members, bans outright users caught selling stolen goods.
"We have a zero tolerance approach to stolen goods and are proactive in seeking out offenders," group administrator Adrian Fullard said.
Launceston Bargain Bin has strategies that it didn't want disclosed to help counter the problem.
"It's the sort of thing you need to be prepared to deal with when opening a buy and sell group," administrator Laura Murfet said.
"Members need to be vigilant in reporting suspected criminal activity to admin - we can't be expected to see everything that goes on."
Cityprom executive Vanessa Cahoon said it could be difficult for administrators to police sites on their own and urged buyers to "not support criminal behaviour".
Launceston uniform police Inspector Michael Johnston said there was a moral responsibility for people using the sites to do the right thing and be vigilant.