WASHINGTON ( DC News Now ) — The Humane Rescue Alliance (HRA) is warning the D.C. community of a fraudulent scheme targeting owners of missing pets.
These swindlers have been posing as HRA staff or veterinary personnel, saying that they have found the owners’ lost pets. They then are saying that the pet is hurt and needs urgent care, and go on to demand money for treatment before the pet can be returned.
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“These individuals are exploiting the emotional stress of pet loss to trick people into sending money,” the HRA said.
The HRA wants everyone to know:
- These swindlers are watching for public lost pet posts to find their victims.
- They may use emotionally manipulative language and say that the pet was hit by a car and is in critical condition.
- They will pressure you to pay through payment apps, wire transfers or through gift cards.
- The HRA said it will never ask for money over the phone in return for a lost pet or for emergency treatment.
- Do not send money to anyone who says that they have found your lost pet.
- Protect yourself by hanging up on anyone who claims to be from the HRA and call the HRA directly at (202) 723-5730.
If you feel that you are being targeted, report the suspicious behavior to the police and the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov …