SCAM ALERT : www.Puppyfindersa.com

SCAM ALERT !

With reference to the domain : https://www.puppyfindersa.com/ and associated business claiming to sell puppies in South Africa.

This domain is currently being used by known scammers in South Africa. Whois data shows a deliberate attempt to obfuscate domain ownership details: https://www.whois.com/whois/puppyfindersa.com

They typically masquerade as puppy sellers (numerous breeds) – in some cases they claim to be breeders - alternatively offering a go-between finders service. They send images of puppies many of which can be found on the interweb.

They request an up front deposit from the prospective buyer to secure the selected dog. They then request a shipping/transport fee. As soon as these or part of these funds have been transferred to their account they disappear and do not respond to further correspondence. Needless to say their website address as can be seen from Google street view is fake. Typically they use small towns and streets which are not covered by street view.

Three South African banks are currently tracing the account holders. Criminal charges are being brought against the owners/syndicate and an investigation is currently underway by the SA police and related overseas connections. These scammers apparently make use of numerous domains. Based on the numbers of complaints received over the passed few months they have scammed literally dozens of members of the public during this time - not just in South Africa.

Basic methods to prevent yourself being scammed : 1) Demand a physical address where you or a friend can view the puppies. 2) Never send money prior to actually confirming the sellers authenticity and only then make payment at the time of the sale. 3) Do not buy a puppy via a remote company who claims they will deliver the puppy to you. 5) Report all scam attempts - by entering a report via this and other sites and share your experience with friend - to educate the public.