NORTH Wales Police has warned against buying pets online without visiting them first.

With people spending more time home, it may seen to the ideal time to get a pet.

However, police say criminals have recognised this and are using the opportunity to scam innocent people by posting fake advertisements for pets online.

The seller uses Covid-19 restrictions as an excuse for not being able to visit the animal and instead sends photos. The victims are persuaded to make payment in advance but the pet is never provided.

The scammer may say the pet will be sent by a courier service which never arrives, or gives an address to collect the pet but on arrival either an empty house or random address is found.

Financial abuse safeguarding officer, DC Rachel Roberts, said: “We have had a number of reports around people buying pets online but then either more money is demanded before sending the animal or the seller stops communication after receiving payment, without delivering the animal. In one case, a scammer tried to demand over £2000 to be paid towards the delivery of the puppy.

“Criminals are opportunistic and are using the Covid-19 pandemic as an excuse for people not to visit animals before buying them.

“Before purchasing a pet online, take a moment to carefully consider the deal being offered, as the seller may not be legitimate.”

Criminals will use any opportunity to exploit innocent people, so it is important to be aware of the steps you can take to protect yourself from becoming a victim of fraud.

The RSPCA website has advice on spotting an illegitimate seller if you are considering buying a pet:

Dealers may use the same contact number on more than one advert. Try Googling the number to see if it has been used on any other puppy adverts.

Descriptions may have been copied and pasted and used on more than one advert - try Googling the description and see if it has been used before, word-for-word.

Photos of the puppies may have been used on other adverts. Right click on the photo, select 'search Google for image' and see if it has been used on other ads.

More advice on the RSPCA website.

North Wales Police continues to work with Action Fraud and other partner agencies to protect the public from all types of fraud. For advice on how to protect yourself from fraud, visit the Action Fraud website.

If you think you’ve become a victim to fraud, contact your bank immediately and report it to Action Fraud. You can also report any suspicious texts or emails you’ve received, even if you haven’t lost any money. Report scams to Action Fraud online or by calling 0300 123 2040.