Police are warning the community to watch out for scams, after a report of a Riverland resident being scammed when they answered an online ad offering a puppy for sale.
The victim engaged in online communication with the ‘seller’ claiming to be from Tasmania. The victim paid more than $6000 in payments for the 'English Staffy' puppy which unfortunately turned out to be a scam.
Police say there is currently a high number of Australians falling victim to puppy scams, after attempting to purchase pets from online websites or through social media advertisements.
In a statement released late this week, SA police said it is common with this type of scam for the seller to claim to be either in a remote location, interstate or overseas so that it is impossible for the buyer to view the animal in person.
Police urge the public to act with caution when buying online and not just rely on the reviews displayed on the website. If you have any doubts, don't continue with the purchase.
If you believe you have been the victim of online fraud, report it immediately at www.cyber.gov.au/report
For more crime prevention tips please contact your local police station or visit https://www.police.sa.gov.au/your-safety/crime-prevention-and-security