Puppy Scam Hits Waterford

Thursday, 21 March 2019 09:46

Police are warning the public about purchasing animals online after a local person was duped out of $350.

NORFOLK COUNTY - Police are warning the public about a puppy scam making the rounds locally.

Recently a person lost a $350 down payment after they purchased a puppy online that was for sale in Waterford. The victim sent the down payment through an e-transfer, however the puppy was never received. The victim then attended the residence and spoke to the homeowner who was totally unaware that their address was being used to sell animals.

OPP are warning the public to be extremely vigilant when searching web sites with items posted for sale. Some scam artists use stolen photos in their ads, claiming they are pictures of animals for sale. The seller will ask for money in advance and refer the unsuspecting person to a money wiring service. The buyer waits for few days and when they do not receive the animal, they attempt to contact the seller, receiving no answer.

In order to avoid these types of scams, remember the following general words of advice:

- Know whom you are dealing with - independently confirm your seller's name, street, address, and telephone number.

- Resist pressure to "act now." If an offer sounds too good to be true it usually is.

- If the buyer wants to use a service you have not heard of, be sure to check it out to be sure it is reliable - check its Web site, call its customer service hotline, and read its terms of agreement and privacy policy. If you do not feel comfortable with the service, do not use it.

- NEVER wire money or use a bank-to-bank transfer in a transaction.

- ALWAYS try to deal locally when buying or selling anything or of high-value.

- DO NOT sell or buy any animal from someone who is unable or unwilling to meet you face to face.

- NEVER buy any animal that you have not seen in real life and had inspected by a professional.

Inspector Joseph Varga, Norfolk OPP Detachment Commander says they want to educate the public to prevent you from becoming a victim.

"The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Norfolk County Detachment continues to receive reports from residents stating they have been or attempted to be defrauded. Don't be a victim. Fraud is a multi-billion dollar enterprise that will only stop when the scammers stop getting money, banking information or personal information."