A new, original online scam has been discovered by Hoax Slayer. If you're looking for a pet, you should be extra careful because the scam we're about to describe promises free kittens (or any other pet).
The new scam promises free 11-week-old kittens. The scammers ask their victims to “only” pay the shipping fee, which can reach 220 per kitten.
Of course there are no kittens. It's a scam designed to fool unsuspecting animal lovers.
Scammers try to convince their victims that the process is safe, since the fee is paid to the shipping company upon delivery. However, the money ends up in the pockets of the scammers.
The messages look like the one below. If you encounter one of these, just ignore it. These scams have been around for years, but it seems like there are still people who believe them.
(We quote the message as it is. This does not mean that some skilled Greek cannot translate it and use it in the local “market”)
“Hello there,
Thanks for your interest in these lovely male and female babies I have for adoption. They are Eleven (11) weeks old. They are still available and ready to go, They are cfa registered with all shots, vaccines and vet records updated. They are toilet trains. They have been vaccinated and mirco chipped.
They have great personality and good temperaments with puppies and other pets. I also need you to assure us that you can take good care of these babies. I would like to ask you a few questions if you don't mind.
1) what are your names...?
2) what is your phone number so I could call if necessary...?
3) Do you have any experience with kittens?
4) Will you send us updates about him or her from time to time and pictures?
5) Where exactly are you located?I am actually giving them out because I lost my wife and son in a crucial Car Accident, I don't have enough time taking good care of the puppies since I travel time to time. Due to my working condition I am currently in Cooktown, QLD,
I can arrange for delivery with a reliable delivery company if you can't pick them up. All you have to pay is the transportation fee for the kittens which will cost you $220 for one. If it's for the two kittens it will cost $440 for both.
Regarding payment you shall pay the transportation fee directly to the Shipping company, that will be transporting the kittens. It will be a few hours flight and you will receive the kittens. If everything is okay by you, get back to me with your full shipping information.
Your Full Name….
City……….
State……….
Zip Code……..
House Address/Apartment #…….(For Home Delivery)
Land Line……..?
Mobile Line……..?
How many Kiitens do you want….As soon as I have all the above information from you, I shall haste any time suitable by you to the shipping company and book a reservation flight delivery to your home. The payments shall be made upfront to the Shipping company as soon as they contact you.
With this, you will be rest assured of where your money is going to, since you will be dealing directly with the Delivery Company. I have a little experience in shipping pets, I actually shipped one last month, so be rest assured the kittens will be delivered safely.
I will be waiting to receive your data.”
