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Don't fall for this online puppy scam, police warn

Red flags include if the puppy is free if you pay for shipping or if the seller will only communicate via text or email
2019-10-27 Puppy
Stock photo

NEWS RELEASE
SOUTH SIMCOE POLICE
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South Simcoe Police Service is warning residents about an online puppy scam.

We have received several reports of residents who made deposits towards the purchase of a puppy after responding to an online ad. Once e-transfer payments were made, the seller blocked the buyers or ignored their texts.

The best way to avoid a puppy scam is don't buy a pet without seeing it in person. Be wary of these red flags:
    •    Prices are too good to be true, or the price is negotiable, on sale or at a discounted price
    •    Puppy is free if you pay for shipping
    •    Seller won’t talk on the phone and only communicates through emails or texts
    •    The only way to get the puppy is to have it shipped to you, and you can’t pick it up
    •    You must pay by money transfer or prepaid debit card
    •    After you make a payment, there are suddenly more expenses (e.g., shipping insurance, vet bills, crate fees, etc.)
    •    The puppy’s photo is in other ads

If you must purchase a pet online, search the seller’s name and contact information with the words "scam" and "complaint" before you part with your cash. If you are a victim, report the scam to police.

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