Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers 77 ADVANCED FEE FRAUD (Puppy Fraud) The Puppy fraud involves the promise of a puppy when all the necessary fees are paid. Advertisements using stolen photos are placed in newspapers claiming they are pictures of puppies for sale, when, in fact, the con artist does not have the puppy that is for sale. The ad usually involves someone who has moved, is moving, or who resides in another country. Money is requested in advance to cover the purchase of the puppy, shipping, and customs charges. The consumer is referred to a moneywiring service such as Western Union or Money Gram. The consumer forwards the money and waits a few days for the puppy to arrive. When the puppy does not arrive, the consumer attempts to contact the seller, but receives no answer. What You Can Do About Puppy Fraud Know who you are dealing with— independently confirm the seller’s name, street, address, and telephone number and contact your local office of the BBB (Better Business Bureau). Only purchase puppies from reputable breeders or adopt a puppy from your local Humane Society. Resist the pressure to “act now”— if an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is. If the buyer wants to use a service you have not heard of, check it out. To ensure it is reliable, check its web site, call its customer service hotline, and read its terms of agreement and privacy policy. If you do not feel comfortable with the service, do not use it. Report puppy fraud to PhoneBusters. If you are a victim, contact the local police (if applicable) or the local detachment of the RCMP. Fraud Cent$ Toolkit for Seniors Helping Seniors Avoid Fraud
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