host posted on October 23, 2009 09:27
The North Jefferson News
The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office is warning citizens about a potential scam involving an advertisement for a free Yorkie puppy.
In a press release issued Thursday, the department said it had received a complaint from a citizen about a fraudulent Web site ad advertising the dog was “free to a good home.” However, after the citizen made contact with the seller, the person was advised to send $250 for shipping and handling of the animal.
Authorities said the buyer is told the money is needed right away because the seller has been transferred out of town.
The sheriff’s office said citizens should remember the following tips if they encounter a possibly fraudulent ad:
• grammatical errors in posting
• inconsistencies with seller location and where money should be mailed
• requests to wire money to an account
• overselling qualities about the dog
• lack of seller contact information
• ads that claim to be free and then ask for money
The sheriff’s office asked citizens to notify their local law enforcement agency should they come in contact with a possibly fraudulent ad and the media outlet who posted it.