Consumers warned to be aware of puppy scams this holiday season
As we approach the holidays, the Better Business Bureau is advising consumers to be cautious of puppy scams.
While cases haven’t increased this year, data reveals the average loss victims suffer has steadily climbed over the last five years.
Back in 2017, the average loss was about $500, on average. Now, that number has increased by about 60%, to $850 per victim.
“The holiday season is definitely one of the most popular times of year for people to look to adopt a pet, especially families,” said Caitlin Driscoll, Public Relations Director for our region’s BBB. “Financial losses continue to increase.”
Locally, Driscoll said they receive puppy scam reports at least once per week. So far this year, consumer losses in North America at large are expected to exceed $2 million.
Typically, scammers target victims using phony online advertisements or even fake websites. Adorable images are used to lure in customers.
Driscoll called it a multitiered set up, where the scammers typically con their victims into making multiple payments.
“Usually after that initial payment is completed, fraudsters use the shipment of the puppy to try to get more money from the victim and they’ll tack on hundreds of dollars just for bogus, fabricated charges, like insurance,” Driscoll said.
She said the scammers sometimes even manage to create fake emails that mimic what could be sent to you by an airline for shipping a dog.
“These scams can really stretch out over a period of time and incorporate different aspects to make it seem more convincing.”
The BBB has tracked scams involving more than 40 breeds, but data shows that three breeds make up 30% of scams: Yorkies, Dachshunds and French Bulldogs.
Driscoll said there are a number of red flags to look out for.
She advises consumers to carefully conduct their research. Online advertisements also often feature stolen or stock images of dogs. Depending on the browser, consumers can right click on a photograph and conduct a “reverse search” to see if the adorable dog photograph is actually an original image, or one pulled from elsewhere on the web. A remarkably discounted dog could also be a sign of a scam.
“One of the best ways to avoid falling victim to these scams is to see the pet in person before paying any kind of money. Inspect the pet yourself, arrange to meet the seller,” Driscoll said. “Most legitimate breeders are going to welcome your visit. It should be a red flag if the person is hesitant.”
If a visit isn’t an option, Driscoll suggests requesting a live video call with the seller, so you can see the dog virtually. Do not just accept a prerecorded video, as it could be stolen from the web.
As an additional tip, Driscoll advises to always make purchases with a credit card. She said some scammers will initially request credit card information, but then claim it was declined, and instead request a less secure payment method. She said, contrary to popular belief, money-sending apps are not traceable or secure.
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