Often the Prince George RCMP receives reports of advance payment frauds.
This type of fraud is when fraudsters target victims to make advance or upfront payments for goods, services and/or financial gains that never materialize.
These frauds come in a wide variety of variations from the lottery or prize pitch to the rental property and puppy classified scams, all of which have gained victims here in our community. For a complete list, go to the Canadian Anti-fraud Centre website.
The puppy classifieds scam is when fraudsters target dog lovers with the promise of a puppy when all necessary fees are paid.
A recent victim searched online for a new pet and located what appeared to be a legitimate puppy ad. The ad had a picture of a puppy and included the puppy's name.
The photo and possibly the name were taken from somewhere else on the internet.
Once all the fees are paid via wire transfer the fraudulent seller puts the victim in contact with a pet transfer company and includes a website address to a real company.
Of course, they require more money to ship your new pet to you.
If you refuse to pay, they threaten you with legal action for abandonment of the animal. This is a fraud.
They do not have the puppy. They only want your money.
In order to avoid advance payment scams, remember the following general words of advice:
If you are a victim once, you will often be targeted again. Familiarize yourself with different types of frauds at the Canadian Anti-fraud Centre website.
Speak to your entire family about frauds, especially those that are more trusting like the elderly.
Avoid renting property without meeting the property representative face to face.
Never wire money before acquiring the good or service. Once it's gone, you cannot get it back.
Research the company, lottery, pet breeder or property owner on the internet.
Call their customer service centre.
Some companies have warnings about the fraud on their websites;
For more information about this type of Advance Payment Fraud or any other frauds in Canada, go to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre website.
