Fraudsters are posting advertisements for non-existent animals and pet accessories such as a horse box or trailer online, warns the official reporting line Action Fraud. The fraudsters offer lower than expected prices; then demand full payment or a deposit for the animal via bank transfer or electronic wire. To prevent requests to visit the animal, fraudsters will tell victims that it is in a remote or far-away location.
In some cases, the fraudsters are telling victims that they need to pay further fees for animal travel insurance, documentation or travel cages. Victims are promised that some or all of these extra fees will be refunded when they receive the animal; however once these funds have been transferred, the fraudster will stop all communication, leaving victims out of pocket and with no pet.
Director of Action Fraud, Pauline Smith, said: “Fraudsters are taking advantage of people looking for pets online, often to bring into their family. When a person falls victim to this fraud, the upset and financial loss caused can be huge and the promise of a family pet to children is often left empty. This is why it’s so important that you follow our advice to help protect yourself and always trust your instincts – if an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.
“If you think you have been a victim of fraud, report it to us.”
Police advise that if you’re purchasing goods and services from a company or person you don’t know and trust, carry out some research first, or ask friends and family for advice before completing a purchase. Remember, if an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. Avoid paying for good and services by bank transfer as that offers you little protection if you become a victim of fraud. Instead, use a credit card or payment services such as PayPal.
Use the online marketplace’s ‘report’ function if you come across suspicious adverts or sellers. Sellers offering to meet you ‘halfway’ seems generous but you should only buy the puppy from the place where it was born and raised.
If you think you have fallen victim to this type of fraud, report it to Action Fraud online or by calling 0300 123 2040.
