Police are urging Victorians to be alert to scammers following reports of widespread scam activity linked to the sale of puppies.
Detectives from across the state are investigating reports of hundreds of people who have lost thousands of dollars after being scammed by fake puppy advertisements.
Scammers are advertising puppies for sale on websites that appear to be professional and are advertised through online marketplaces.
Once a buyer makes an enquiry with the seller, they are sent a photo of a puppy. Victims are generally asked to make cash deposits into a bank account for a puppy, which often includes costs for interstate transport, insurance, and registration fees.
Victims often also report being asked for further funds once the initial money is paid, with a variety of excuses such as different crates or equipment being required.
The communication is usually by email, text, online or telephone and once payment has been made, the seller ceases all contact.
Victims don’t receive the puppy and lose their money, with losses between $700 and $10,000 reported.
The most prevalent breeds are Cavoodles, French Bulldogs, Mini Teacup Puppies, Golden Retrievers, Corgies and Dachshunds.
Some cases reported to police include:
- A mother who lost over $10,000 after believing she was buying two French Bulldog puppies online, one for herself and one for her daughter. The victims believed the seller was credible and transferred funds for the…
