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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