The scammers emotionally manipulate the victims. In most cases, the puppies do not even exist.
More and more online fraudsters are luring their victims with puppies. Internet users looking for young four-legged friends are increasingly coming across fake providers who take money out of their pockets without ever delivering a real puppy. This is what a report by the non-profit organization Better Business Bureau (BBB) says.
We have also reported on this topic several times. (see here and here )
Thoroughly check your internet provider
“Internet users are more likely to let down their guard when it comes to an emotional topic like baby dogs. It is generally not advisable to look for puppies online; such a transaction should be carried out person-to-person at the breeder.
When searching online, it is best for searchers to call the provider to see if they are legitimate. They should also google the number and look at online reviews about it,”
says internet detective Matthias Kindt-Hopffer to pressetext.
The BBB has received nearly 16,000 complaints about puppy scams in the U.S. over the past three years. Since the organization published a study on such rip-offs in 2017, the number of complaints has increased by 39 percent.
Around 5,000 legitimate or fake companies were at the center of the complaints.
Excuses for non-delivery
In puppy scams, internet users see an advertisement with pictures of cute baby dogs. The scammers pose as animal breeders or as overwhelmed owners of the puppies who are looking for a new home for them. They demand that their victims transfer the money immediately and promise that the four-legged friend will be delivered soon. However, there are always apparent problems with delivery. Scammers stall their victims with various excuses in the hope that they will eventually give up.
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This tactic is often successful. According to the US Federal Trade Commission, only about ten percent of victims report the crime. The BBB advises consumers to search for the advertising image of the puppies online. If it also appears on other websites, it is a scam.
The suggested price can also provide an indication. Users should compare this with the price for the affected dog breed. For example, if a pedigree dog is offered at a low price or even for free, caution is advised.
Source: press release
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