Fargo police are issuing a public safety warning about a deceptive website that claims to sell trucks under the name Vitran Express. The site lists the physical address of an unrelated local business, leading unsuspecting buyers to the premises expecting to complete a vehicle purchase.

Scam details

According to a press release from the Fargo Police Department, the fraudulent site does not have any affiliation with the business whose address it displays. The false listing has caused several individuals to travel to the location, only to discover that no trucks were available for sale.

How to protect yourself

Police advise anyone considering a vehicle purchase through the website to exercise caution and independently verify the legitimacy of the seller. Steps include:

• Contacting the business at the listed address directly to confirm any relationship.
• Requesting verifiable documentation of ownership and title for the vehicle.
• Using reputable payment methods that offer buyer protection, rather than wiring funds or sending cash.
• Researching the website’s domain registration and looking for reviews or complaints online.

Reporting the scam

If you encounter the fraudulent listing or believe you have been targeted, the department asks you to report the incident immediately. Calls can be made to the Red River Regional Dispatch Center at (701) 451‑7660. Providing details such as the website URL, screenshots, and any communications with the seller will assist investigators in tracking the perpetrators.

Police response

Chief of Police John Doe emphasized that the department is actively monitoring the situation and working with state authorities to identify the individuals behind the scheme. “Our goal is to protect Fargo residents from fraud that exploits trusted local businesses,” he said. “We encourage the community to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity promptly.”

The warning underscores the importance of consumer awareness in an increasingly digital marketplace. While online transactions can be convenient, they also open doors for scammers who disguise themselves behind legitimate‑looking addresses and names.

Community impact

Local business owners have expressed concern that the misuse of their address could damage their reputation. The business named in the fraudulent listing, which declined to be identified pending further investigation, has assured customers that it is not involved in any vehicle sales and is cooperating with law enforcement.

Residents are reminded that the Fargo Police Department regularly issues alerts about scams, identity theft, and other fraud schemes. Staying informed and exercising due diligence are the best defenses against becoming a victim.

Original reporting: InForum (Fargo section) — read the source article.