Scammers using coronavirus to trick people into buying pets that don't exist

Scammers have been using the coronavirus pandemic to trick people into buying pets that don't exist.
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Criminals have been advertising puppies and kittens for sale online and then asking people to send money up-front.

They have used the outbreak of Covid-19 and social distancing as a reason people cannot visit the animal beforehand.

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They also ask the victim to put down a deposit and then request more money to cover cover insurance, vaccinations and even delivery of the pet.

Criminals have used the outbreak of Covid-19 and social distancing to trick people into buying pets that don't exist.Criminals have used the outbreak of Covid-19 and social distancing to trick people into buying pets that don't exist.
Criminals have used the outbreak of Covid-19 and social distancing to trick people into buying pets that don't exist.

The pets do not exist and the scammer will stop contact after taking the money.

More than 669 people have been victim to this scam in March and April alone - with a huge increase of cases happening in April, when the UK lockdown was put in pace.

A total of £282,686 has been lost to these scams.

The adverts that victims have responded to were posted on social media, general online selling platforms and also specific pet selling platforms.

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Pauline Smith, Head of Action Fraud, said: "The fact criminals will even exploit an international crisis, such as the one we find ourselves in now, to take innocent people’s money is especially cruel.

"But, unfortunately, as we spend more time online, and are forced to adapt to a new way of life, opportunities will arise for criminals to commit fraud.

"During these unprecedented times, it may seem quite plausible that you should have to pay a deposit for a pet and that you wouldn’t be able to see the animal in real life first.

"However, we would encourage you to think carefully before you transfer any money – do you know and trust this person?”

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An RSPCA spokesperson said: "Unfortunately we've investigated many criminal gangs who are willing to exploit animals in order to make a quick buck and now, during this time of international crisis, they will be trying new tricks to cash in and con the public.

"We'd urge anyone thinking of getting a new pet to think long and hard about whether they can properly care for that animal, not just now but into the future when restrictions are lifted and their lifestyles become more busy.

"If people do decide now is the right time to get a pet, then we'd always urge them to consider adopting instead of buying an animal.

"We still have thousands of animals in our care at the moment and have restarted rehoming some animals in England with strict measures to keep our staff and the public safe.

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"Anyone who is concerned about a breeder or seller should walk away and contact the local council and RSPCA on 0300 1234 999."

Action Fraud advice on protect yourself from scams like this:

- Before purchasing anything online, including pets, look up reviews for the site, or person, you are buying from. If you’re still not sure, ask a trusted friend or family member for their advice.

- If you can’t physically go to see the animal in person, ask for a video call. If the seller declines, challenge them on why. If you have any suspicions, don’t go ahead with the purchase.

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- If you decide to go ahead with the purchase, avoid paying by bank transfer as that offers you little protection if you become a victim of fraud. Instead, use a credit card or a payment service such as PayPal.

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