Tips for Safe Online Purchases
Since mid-March 2017, the Wood Buffalo RCMP have responded to multiple complaints of online fraud, specifically related to animal sales advertised on Facebook. In these cases, sellers were requesting a down payment for a puppy, only to disappear once the payment was made.
When considering a purchase online, especially when it comes to pets, keep these important tips in mind:
Research Thoroughly: Before purchasing a product or service, take the time to carefully research both the item and the seller. Look for reviews, verify the seller’s legitimacy, and be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true.
Be Wary of Down Payments: Requests for down payments, especially when dealing with individuals rather than established businesses, should raise red flags. Scammers often use this tactic to take your money and then vanish.
Exercise Caution on Social Media: While Facebook requires profiles, it’s no more secure than any other platform for arranging sales. Profiles can contain false information, and scammers often create fake identities to trick buyers.
Avoid Sharing Personal Information: Never provide personal or banking information when making an online purchase. Scammers can use this information for identity theft or other fraudulent activities.
What to Do if You’re a Victim
If you’ve fallen victim to an online fraud involving pet sales or if someone has attempted to scam you, it’s important to take immediate action:
Contact Local Authorities: Report the incident to the Wood Buffalo RCMP at (780) 788-4000, or reach out to your local police department.
Report to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre: You can also report the fraud to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre by calling 1-888-495-8501 or by visiting their website at www.antifraudcentre.ca.
Sellers, Beware
It’s not just buyers who need to be cautious—sellers should also take precautions. Online pet sales are becoming a common area for scams, and both buyers and sellers should remain vigilant to protect themselves from fraudulent activity.
By staying informed and cautious, you can help protect yourself and others from falling victim to online fraud. If something feels off, trust your instincts and take the necessary steps to verify the legitimacy of the transaction.
