Action Fraud is warning the public to think twice before buying an animal online from a website or person you don't know and trust.
Capitalising on the rise in people getting pets due to the national lockdown caused by coronavirus, criminals have been posting fake adverts on social media, online marketplaces and specific pet-selling platforms.
Unsuspecting victims will be asked to pay a deposit for the animal without seeing it in person first, with many criminals using the restrictions caused by the pandemic as a reason why they cannot see the animal. After the initial payment is made, more and more funds will be requested to cover additional costs such as insurance, vaccinations and even delivery of the pet.
Fraudsters are continuing to target MK residents with promises of animals and pet-related products that don’t exist or are not as described. Often the animals are poorly when you get them home.
— MK Trading Standards (@MiltonKeynesTS) May 13, 2021
Follow @actionfrauduk tips to protect yourself: https://t.co/Qrk22qzjvd @mkcouncil pic.twitter.com/fL571cpukM
Action Fraud has issued the following advice to protect yourself from falling victim to pet fraud:
Do your research: If you’re making a purchase from a website or person you don’t know and trust, carry out some research first. Look up reviews of the website or person you’re buying from. If you’re purchasing an item from an online marketplace, you can view the seller’s feedback history before going ahead with the purchase.
Trust your instinct: If you’re unable to physically view the animal in person, ask for a video call. If you’re buying a young animal, make sure you’re able to see the mother and the rest of the litter. Any responsible seller will understand why you want to view the animal in person. If the seller declines, challenge them on why. If you have any suspicions, do not pay any money until you’re certain it’s genuine.
Choose your payment method wisely: Avoid paying by bank transfer as that offers you little protection if you become a victim of fraud. Use a payment method, such as a credit card if you have one, that offers buyer protection in case anything goes wrong.
If you think you’ve been a victim of fraud, contact your bank immediately and report it to Action Fraud online by clicking here or by calling 0300 123 2040.
READ MORE - Taskforce launched to investigate reported rise in pet thefts in areas such as Milton Keynes
