With families searching for new furry friends this holiday season, criminals are using adorable photos and heart-tugging tales (pun intended) to lure in unsuspecting pet seekers. Here are three ways you can stay ahead of pet scams this year:
- Do your research and understand how much a certain breed costs. Avoid websites that offer deep discounts on the going rate.
- Use the photo of the pet you are offered to conduct a reverse image search online (search “how to do a reverse image search” in your favorite browser). Scammers often copy pet photos from other websites.
- If possible, shop locally. Meeting the breeder in person or touring the shelter facility lets you know it is legitimate. A seller that invents reasons why you can’t pick the pet up in person or demands an upfront payment shouldn’t be trusted.
- Talk to your family about considering adopting a rescue as an option to going with a breeder.
Be a fraud fighter! If you can spot a scam, you can stop a scam.
Report scams to local law enforcement. For help from AARP, call 877-908-3360 or visit the AARP Fraud Watch Network at www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork.
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