Warning after missing pet’s owner scammed out of £200 by sick fraudsters

Sick scammers are targeting owners of missing pets, police have warned.

Officers issued the warning after an incident in which a missing pet’s owner was scammed out of £200.

Police explained that scammers are monitoring social media and when distraught families post appeals for help finding a lost pet, and the fraudsters then try to take advantage when people "are at their most desperate to get their beloved pet back".

Crime Reduction Officer, Constable Russell, said “This despicable crime will see scammers contacting pet owners after seeing the appeal to find the missing pet online.

"The scammer will contact you directly on the mobile number or e-mail provided on social media and claim to have found your pet. They will then demand hundreds of pounds for safe return of the pet."

Officers cited an example from earlier this week, when a pet owner lost over £200 after being contacted by a scammer claiming their lost cat was currently in the care of a nearby vet after being found with injuries.

"The scammer demanded money upfront to pay the vet fees," PC Russell continued. "The money was paid through a money transfer app and it was later discovered the vet had never seen or treated the cat.

"Thankfully the cat returned on its own, but the owner lost the money to the scammer.

"Even if a reward was originally offered, scammers will demand more or threaten to kill the pet if money is not sent. The scammers do not actually have your pet and might make up various excuses should you ask to meet or ask for proof. They will ask for money by various means including through bank, Paypal or Bitcoin transfer."

They added that police should be contacted immediately should you suspect a fraud. Do not respond and do not send any money or provide any more of your personal details. Contact police on 101 or through the "Contact Us" form online at https://orlo.uk/hdtYB.