In this article, we'll look at a common scam found on Facebook. – Fraudulent advertisements of dogs supposedly to be given away. We explain how to recognize these scams and how to protect yourself if you have already fallen into the trap.

These days it's easier than ever to search for pets online. Social media such as Facebook in particular serve as a platform for exchange between animal lovers. Unfortunately, this is also a gateway for fraudsters who take advantage of people's willingness to help and pity under the pretext of adopting dogs.

They invent stories of suddenly deceased owners and animals left behind who are urgently looking for a new home. They promise to give the animal away if the transport costs are paid. In fact, the animal often doesn't exist and unsuspecting animal lovers lose their money.

Recognize fraudulent advertisements for dogs and other animals

Detecting fraudulent advertisements is often not that easy, especially if you are emotionally involved. Here are some warning signs that can help you see through such scams:

Remarkably cheap price

If dog or animal breeds, which are usually quite expensive, are suddenly offered as gifts or at a ridiculous price, alarm bells should ring in your head. Scammers often use the appeal of an apparent bargain to lure people into a trap.

Distance to the animal

Another feature of these scams is that both the alleged owners and the animals are often abroad. The distance makes it difficult to verify the legitimacy of the offer and allows fraudsters to cheat on seemingly necessary transportation costs.

Lack of opportunity to visit

Caution is advised if you cannot see and pick up the animal in person.
After all, the presence of the animal is important evidence of its authenticity.
When asked, fraudsters often send several pictures or even videos that, for example, show the dog supposedly being given away playing. But be careful: this is far from proof. The media mostly comes from the Internet and is intended to deceive interested parties into believing that the animals exist.

Delivery by transport services

Be skeptical if you are offered delivery of the animal using a transport company. Scammers often invent transport companies that do not exist and claim that they will bring the animal to you safely.

Facebook profile verification

A close look at the seller's profile can help you detect fraudulent ads. Take a close look at the profile data and look out for signs that could indicate a fake profile.

Post-referral measures

If you have already made a transfer and then realize you have been scammed, there are some steps you can take:

  1. Contact your bank immediately. They may still be able to stop the transfer, although the chances of this happening are usually slim.
  2. Be sure to report it to the police. This helps stop the scammers and warn other people about similar scams.
  3. Report the post to Facebook. This helps prevent the scammer from scamming more people.

Conclusion

In the digital world we live in, it is important to be vigilant and well-informed. Social media offers many advantages. But they also open up new opportunities for fraudsters. Learning to recognize warning signs and act accordingly can help protect yourself and others from fraud. Always be vigilant and don't let yourself be blinded by supposed bargains.

Even in the pet sector, the following applies more than ever: If something sounds too good to be true, then it probably is.

This might also interest you:

Assistance dogs as lifesavers: How you should react if you meet a lonely assistance dog
Small house with small scratches, but a big catch
Disinformation: The dangerous game with the truth


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Notes:
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