Halifax County authorities say people are getting duped into buying property that isn't really for sale, including coveted property at Lake Gaston.

"In light of the real estate industry right now, nationwide and locally, they probably have an attractive sales pitch," said Major Bruce Temple of the Halifax County Sheriff's Office.

Maj. Temple said a contract may make the deal appear legitimate. In this case, the investor put up $25,000 on a lakefront lot, thinking he would be getting back a hefty return. Major Temple said, the victim is eventually told that the sale fell through, and the scammer has several excuses.

There are currently six open cases in Halifax County on this type of fraud.

Sheriff Jeff Frazier has this advice for anyone considering buying property: "Get an attorney to research it, make sure it's a clear title deeds to the land, make sure it isn't somebody trying to hustle you."