What to Do If I See My Stolen Property on Craigslist
By John Lister
Because Craigslist does not require users to register and there is no feedback system, it is more attractive to sellers of stolen goods than other online sales and auction sites. If you are burgled, it may be worth your time to check local Craiglists listings to see if a thief is trying to sell your property. If you do spot it, you should confirm it is yours, then contact the police.
Craigslist Terms
The Craigslist terms and conditions for users do not specifically ban the sale of stolen property. However, users are not allowed to post "content in facilitation of the creation, advertising, distribution, provision or receipt of illegal goods or services," which would cover ads for stolen goods. The Craigslist terms restrict its liability for any postings as far as is legally permitted, meaning that it will not take responsibility for listing goods that are stolen.
Checking Details
Before taking any action, you should try to confirm the property listed on Craigslist is definitely yours. If an item is personalized or otherwise distinctive, you may be able to tell this from a photograph. You might also be able to get a good idea from the combination of items. For example, if you have a games console stolen and see somebody in your city listing a games console, you cannot be sure it is yours. If you have a console and five games stolen, and then see a listing for a console with those five games (and no others), you can be more confident.
Searching
As well as browsing local listings on Craigslist, you can use third party services to search more accurately for your stolen property. For example, the site Stolen 911 (see Resources) enables you to carry out a custom search. This may find your property if the thief has listed it in a different location.
Purchasing
Some people have reported successfully recovering their property by arranging to buy it back from the seller. However, in an October 2011 report ("Is Your Stolen Stuff on Craigslist? Here’s What to Do"), ABC News quoted Portland, Oregon police detectives as recommending that you do not try to do this yourself. There is a risk this could lead to a physical confrontation or otherwise compromise your safety.
Action
Based on the interview with Anderson and Slauson, ABC recommends contacting the police as soon as you are confident you have seen your items listed on Craigslist. You should then co-operate with the police and provide any further details you have on the property, such as a serial number or distinguishing marks. You should contact the seller only to get information that might prove the property is yours, such as asking for a more detailed photograph.
Insurance
If you have reported the theft to your insurer, you should keep the insurer informed about developments. Most policies require you to provide any relevant information about a theft. This would include steps the police are taking to recover the property.
References
Writer Bio
A professional writer since 1998 with a Bachelor of Arts in journalism, John Lister ran the press department for the Plain English Campaign until 2005. He then worked as a freelance writer with credits including national newspapers, magazines and online work. He specializes in technology and communications.