An unfortunate incident is a good reminder to be cautious when buying online.

An incident of fraud was reported to Oakbank RCMP on Saturday at approximately 2:40 p.m.

RCMP say the incident happened at a gas station at Deacons Corner where the victim and suspect had agreed to meet to complete the sale transaction of a PS4 - Uncharted Edition the victim had seen on Kijiji.

The male suspect entered the gas station through the east-side doors using a crutch under his right arm and the victim paid him $230 cash for the PS4. RCMP say the victim attempted to open the box several times but was continually distracted by the suspect who kept talking. The suspect exited the building through the same doors and left the location without the use of a crutch.

Afterward, when the victim opened the box, there was no PS4, only binders and books.

The suspect is described as Caucasian, approximately 5'10" and 200 pounds. He was wearing a red hoodie and the slogan "Get Your Claws Out," black sweat pants with the emblem "CROOKS" on his right leg, white sneakers, and a grey baseball cap.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Oakbank RCMP at 204-444-3847 or call Manitoba Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477, submit a secure tip online at www.manitobacrimestoppers.com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to CRIMES (274637).

March is fraud awareness month. The RCMP reminds the public to beware of offers that are too good to be true because they likely are. Make sure to conduct transactions in public places and ensure you are receiving the goods before providing payment. Do not provide personal and banking information through email or on the phone. If you do become a victim of a fraud, report the incident to your local police and contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. If the fraud took place through a website, be sure to report the incident directly to the website.