Consumer Protection has issued a new warning for consumers to be aware of puppy scams in the State which have already cost victims more than $28,000.
It warned consumers to be cautious when responding to advertisements on websites, trading sites and social media.
Commissioner for Consumer Protection, Penny Lipscombe said 18 puppy scam reports had been received in June, with individual losses ranging from $150 to more than $5,000.
She said COVID-19 restrictions had boosted the demand for puppies.
“Many people who are still working from home due to COVID-19 restrictions have been on the search for a new work companion, while others are just looking for an addition to the family,” Ms Lipscombe said.
“They’ve ended up handing over thousands of dollars in some cases but did not receive their much-wanted puppy.”
She said consumers should do a few checks before responding to advertisements or sending any money.
“The most common puppies being sought in recent scams were French and British Bulldogs but, regardless of the breed advertised, these scams tend to follow a similar pattern,” Ms Lipscombe said.
“Scammers provide consumers with images and videos, usually stolen from other websites, as proof they have puppies for sale. Purchasers are then asked to make payment for the puppy, which usually includes shipping costs”
She said that in the end no puppy is supplied and the payment is virtually impossible to trace.
