CASPER, Wyo. (Wyoming News Now) – The Casper-Natrona County International Airport has reported two instances in the last month of individuals purchasing a pet online, only to find out later that they have become a victim of an online scam. In 2021, pet scams made up 35% of all online shopping scams reported to the Better Business Bureau.
“It’s sad. It’s not only sad when you think about the person losing whatever the money is that they paid, but you know, they’re probably emotionally invested in this pet,” said Natrona County International Airport Director Glenn Januska.
Sellers are posing online as legitimate companies or breeders in an attempt to lure in individuals seeking a furry companion to add to their families. The supposed seller asks for payment for the animal upfront, as well as excess fees for crates and insurance during transport.
“This is something that’s happening, and if you’re doing this, if you’re gonna be purchasing a pet that’s having to be shipped just be aware that these types of scams are going on right now,” said Januska.
Websites appear real on the surface, with photos of animals for adoption, and in some cases even offer video conferencing to meet the animal virtually. The internet scammer goes as far as providing airline flight or cargo company information for the purchased pet. It’s not until the unsuspecting buyer arrives at the airport do they realize that the pet does not exist, and ultimately, they have been scammed.
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