80% of online ads for pets may be fake, says BBB. Here's how to protect yourself

"According to the Better Business Bureau, a shocking 80% of online advertisements for pets may be fake. Here's how to protect yourself from fake breeders and other scammers. First, if you see an online ad for a particularly cute puppy, kitten, or other pet, do a "reverse image search" to see if the photo is stolen from a legitimate site, or if it is a stock photo. If the same picture appears on multiple websites, it's probably fraud."

"Prospective pet parents should also meet their new animal in person, and if possible, see the facility where it is being raised. If a breeder makes excuses for why you can't come visit, that's a red flag. The Federal Trade Commission also cautions consumers to watch how they're asked to pay. Scammers love payment via gift card, crypto currency, or wire transfers."

"If you do enter a transaction with a breeder, watch for undisclosed fees. If the breeder suddenly says there's a transportation fee or licensing fee, that's a warning that they're trying to string you along and pay more for a pet that doesn't exist. Finally, consider adopting an animal in need from your local shelter or rescue group instead of buying from a breeder."

Scammers increasingly advertise pets online, with the Better Business Bureau estimating about 80% of ads may be fake. Prospective buyers should perform reverse image searches to detect stolen or stock photos and compare pictures across websites. Buyers should meet animals in person and, when possible, inspect the facility; sellers who refuse visits present a red flag. The Federal Trade Commission warns against payment by gift card, crypto currency, or wire transfer. Watch for unexpected fees such as transportation or licensing fees that indicate a possible scam. Consider adopting from local shelters or rescues as a safer alternative.

Read at ABC7 San Francisco