It has come to our attention that a scam is being perpetrated on websites across the internet. The scammers are typically foreign (many are from Cameroon or Nigeria). There are many forms of this scam but the theme is very often similar.

Scammers targeting sellers send an overpayment requesting that the amount be deducted for the puppy and overpayment be returned to them (or to their “agent”). After the money has been refunded, the victim finds that the cashier’s check was counterfeit.

Scammers who are targeting buyers on the site claim to have a puppy available to purchase. They are typically from Africa, or may state that they live in the U.S. but are traveling to Africa and can’t bring the puppies with them. They sell the dogs at a very inexpensive price and request payment via money order. Upon receipt of payment they claim that the puppy is now in London (or another location) and that additional money is required to get the puppy out of quarantine. This is the scam. There is no puppy and they will continue to try to get you to send additional money until you catch on and stop communication.

There are ways to protect yourself from these scams. If you are a seller, verify funds prior to sending the puppy. If you are a buyer, ask for references, speak to the seller on the phone, get a clear purchase contract.  A red flag should come up if you are not given a working phone number by which you can speak to your potential person, whether it be a buyer or seller,  and be cautious about sending them your hard earned money..

While the majority of buyers and sellers have honest intentions, there are always a few “bad apples” who will ruin transactions by taking advantage of others. If you believe you are being scammed, please contact the proper authorities with the email address of the potential scammer.

If you do fall victim to a scam, you can report them to the Internet Crime Complaint Center by visiting www.ic3.gov.

Thank you,

  ©  Schraderhaus K9
Quality Working German Shepherd Dogs.