Better Business Bureau: The anatomy of an online puppy scam
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) – The American Kennel Club said the majority of websites advertising dogs for sale are puppy scams. They offer popular breeds with fake pictures, discounted prices and undisclosed fees.
On social media, dozens of websites on Facebook and Instagram show puppies, kittens, and all other types of animals for sale. While scammers have shifted a large percentage of their outreach toward social media over the last several years, the scam operates the same as those run through websites.
Once someone has stumbled upon a scam website or social media page, their risk of losing money begins to rise. Websites often look legitimate or are clones of actual pet sellers, helping scammers increase their aura of legitimacy.
On social media, scammers use multiple profiles to leave fake, glowing reviews of their animals for sale.
Once a buyer reaches out, the perpetrators will often use a fake screening process to judge whether a buyer is a suitable owner to increase their appearance of legitimacy.
If a potential owner asks to see the animal, they will receive many pictures, but the fake seller won’t ever allow them to visit in person or over video chat. Instead, they promise to ship the animal as soon as the purchase is completed.
Once money changes hands, often through an online payment service like Zelle or Venmo, the trouble begins.
BBB ScamTracker showed a California woman reserved a puppy for $200, paid another $150 for paperwork, then $300 for vet fees. On delivery day, $359 spent for a crate deposit and $150 for insurance. She lost $1,000.
An Arizona woman says she paid to have her puppy shipped but says they kept asking for more and more money. She lost $2,100.
Before trusting any business, check out reviews, complaints and for trusted Accredited Businesses at BBB.org and visit BBB’s Scam Tracker.
Check out all BBB scam warnings at joeknowsbetter.com.
Pet scam red flags:
· Popular breeds are available for incredibly low prices.
· The seller refuses to meet in person or take a video call.
· Extra charges for cages, vaccinations and other shipping costs.
· The word “teacup” is used in an advertisement.
· High-pressure tactics are meant to make the buyer think the animal will be harmed.
BBB tips to avoid pet scams:
· See pets in person before paying any money.
· Set up a video call to view the animal.
· Conduct a reverse image search on photos attached to ads.
· Research the breed to determine the average market price.
· Check out a local animal shelter for pets to meet in person before adopting.
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