Police are appealing to members of the public who use social media and websites to sell items to take precautions and be vigilant when doing so.
North Brisbane police have identified a recent trend that has seen people who have been selling things online being robbed.
It appears that offenders are taking advantage of the uptake in online selling by making contact with the seller, attending their home or another location, stealing the item and then assaulting the seller.
In some instances, firearms have even been produced.
Property stolen in recent offences include motor vehicles, electronic devices such as mobile phones and other items of value.
The Officer in Charge of North Brisbane District Crime Prevention Unit Senior Sergeant Steve Waterson is urging sellers to be vigilant.
“Always be careful when providing personal details to someone online and practice personal safety by trusting your instincts.
“Have buyers view items at a reasonable time of day, have someone