Bringing a new pet into your home is an exciting time, but it’s important to be aware of potential scams. According to the Federal Trade Commission, here are some tips if you’re thinking of getting a furry friend for yourself or a loved one:
- Do some research. Search online for the name of the seller or business and words like “review,” “scam,” or “complaint.” See what others are saying.
- Watch how you’re asked to pay. Only scammers say you must pay with gift cards, a payment app, cryptocurrency, or a wire transfer service like Western Union or MoneyGram, since it’s difficult to get your money back.
- Watch for urgent requests for payment. Scammers often pressure you to pay quickly through methods like wire transfers or gift cards.
- Be cautious of sellers who only communicate online and refuse to meet in person for you to see the animal before making any payments.
- Consider a local rescue or animal shelter. Animals of all breeds and ages are waiting to be adopted. An online search will point you to them, where you’ll be able to adopt a new furry friend.
CEFCU is committed to helping you make informed decisions. For more information on various types of scams, visit cefcu.com/security.