Pet owners in Orange County are being targeted by scammers who pose as law enforcement officials and demand payment for missing pets.
The officials warned that these fraudulent calls often begin with a dramatic claim that the pet was hit by a car or involved in a similar incident.
The goal is to create a sense of urgency that compels owners to act quickly.
In the typical scenario, the scammer tells the owner that the animal has been treated by a veterinarian and that it will not be released until the medical costs are paid.
The caller pretends to have authority and uses the emotional weight of a missing pet to pressure the owner into compliance.
The scammers then direct the owner to transfer the funds through popular mobile payment platforms.
Mission Viejo Animal Services reports that the scammers specifically ask for payment via Zelle or Venmo, citing the convenience and speed of these services.
In one documented instance, a scammer even offered to have a nonprofit cover a portion of the expenses, leaving the owner responsible for the remainder.
The animal services emphasize that no legitimate agency would require payment before releasing a pet.
Crime Prevention Specialist Lisa Lebron Flores explained that scams such as this one are designed to elicit emotional responses and prompt a quick financial transaction.
She added, “Scams target people to create emotion and stir up feelings to get a quick response, as seen in this scam, as well as the grandparent scam, outstanding warrant scam, and others that appear to necessitate quick payment and response.” Flores highlighted that the pattern is common across many types of fraud.
Mission Viejo officials advise anyone who receives a suspicious call to refrain from sending money and to contact the agency immediately to verify the caller’s claims.
The shelter stresses that the best way to avoid falling victim to such scams is to not answer phone calls from unknown numbers.
They also recommend that pet owners keep a record of any unsolicited calls for future reference.
The shelter further urged residents that if they suspect a scam, they should report it to their local sheriff’s office, which can investigate and take action against the perpetrators.
By following these steps, owners can protect themselves and help prevent others from becoming targets.
The community is encouraged to remain vigilant and share any suspicious activity with law enforcement.
Orange County officials have issued this warning as part of a broader effort to safeguard pet owners and prevent financial exploitation.
The alert underscores the importance of verifying any claim that involves a missing pet and a request for payment.
The message is clear: do not trust unsolicited calls that demand immediate funds.
Pet owners should also be aware that legitimate animal shelters or veterinary clinics will not demand payment before releasing a pet, and they will provide documentation or a clear payment schedule.
If an owner is unsure about the legitimacy of a claim, they can call the official number listed on the shelter’s website.
This simple verification step can save time and money.
The incident highlights how scammers adapt to current technologies, using platforms like Zelle and Venmo to make transactions appear legitimate.
By staying informed about these tactics, residents can protect themselves and their beloved animals.
The county’s proactive approach aims to reduce the number of successful scams in the community.
In summary, Orange County’s warning serves as a reminder that scammers will use any emotional trigger to solicit money.
Pet owners should remain cautious, verify claims, and report suspicious activity to local authorities.
Together, the community can help stop these fraudulent schemes and keep pets safe.
