Animal/Pet Scam

Animal scams often appear in classified ads and the animals being advertised are often listed at a very low price or free. Interested buyers often have an exchange of messages with the seller and the seller claims that the buyer must send multiple payments to cover costs such as transportation, vaccinations, insurance, certificates, etcetera, but in the end, the buyer does not receive the animal.

SPOT THE SCAM
Animal/Pet Scam Clues
  • Be cautious about animals being listed below their normal price range.
STOP THE SCAM
Animal/Pet Scam Defence
  • Know the market value or the average price that the animal is being sold for.
  • Find and verify the contact information of the seller before you buy.
  • When making a purchase, use a payment method that has fraud protection (e.g. pay by credit card).
  • When possible, exchange the animal(s) and deal with payment in person.
  • Review the legitimacy of the seller.
  • Check online to see if the seller has been reported as fraudulent.

NOW IT’S YOUR TURN!

TEST YOUR DEFENCE AGAINST THE ANIMAL/PET SCAM

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