ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR) – AARP Virginia Fraud Alert is warning residents of pet scams this holiday season.
In case you are looking to bring a furry friend home for the holidays, residents should be aware of criminals using cute animal photos to lure in possible pet owners.
Here are some tips to get ahead of the 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.
To receive guidance if you are targeted by a scammer visit www.aarp.org or call their designated helpline for a fraud specialist at 1-877-908-3360.