Pet Scam - How to Protect Yourself

Fast answer

Pet Scam in one clear explanation

Fake pet sales and adoption scams.

Adorable puppy/kitten photos posted online at low price or free to good home
Seller requests payment for shipping, crate, insurance, or vet fees
Best first move: Always meet pets in person before paying

Check for This Scam

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How This Scam Works

Step 1

Adorable puppy/kitten photos posted online at low price or free to good home

Step 2

Seller requests payment for shipping, crate, insurance, or vet fees

Step 3

Pet doesnt exist, fees keep increasing, money is gone

How to Protect Yourself

✓ Always meet pets in person before paying
✓ Avoid wire payments
✓ Research breeders thoroughly
✓ Use local shelters instead

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pet Scam?

Fake pet sales and adoption scams.

How does Pet Scam work?

Adorable puppy/kitten photos posted online at low price or free to good home Seller requests payment for shipping, crate, insurance, or vet fees Pet doesnt exist, fees keep increasing, money is gone

How can I protect myself from Pet Scam?

Always meet pets in person before paying Avoid wire payments Research breeders thoroughly Use local shelters instead

View all FAQ →

Best next step

Scam Detector

For mixed scam inputs such as messages, files, screenshots, links, and fake shops.

How StopScam Works

For the product path from first web check to ongoing mobile protection.

Pricing

For the current free-trial, monthly, and yearly plan summary.

Official resources

FTC Consumer Advice

US consumer guidance for scams, fraud patterns, and reporting options.

FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center

Official reporting channel for internet-enabled crime in the United States.