Adverts aimed at those seeking a canine companion are appearing on sites selling pets. Problem is, there’s no pet to sell
You have finally succumbed and decided to let a canine companion into your life – but your search for the perfect pet could put you in the hands of fraudsters.
Adverts for puppies pop up all the time on pet selling sites, online marketplaces and social media. They are not all fake, but in among the real Rovers are some faux furry friends.
The main scam involves advertising a pet that doesn’t exist. You pay the deposit – maybe after a conversation with the “seller” or even a video call – and then nothing. You may have been given details of a collection point, but if you turn up, you will be disappointed.
Kate Margolis, from the Cotswolds, England, was scammed when she was looking for a golden retriever puppy.
