Essex Trading Standards have issued a warning, after seeing a rise in "fake pet sales" emerging online through the Covid pandemic.

The team say they have seen an increase in reports of the fake pet sales, in particular puppies and kittens, being advertised for sale on social media.

According to trading standards, the fraudsters will place an advert of the pet for sale, often claiming that the pet is currently held somewhere less accessible or overseas.

The scammers also using lockdown as a way of stopping buyers from visiting to look at the animal.

Upon agreement of a sale, the suspect will usually request an advance payment by money transfer or bank transfer. However, the pet does not materialise.

The fraudster is then not contactable or will subsequently ask for further advanced payments for courier charges, shipping fees and additional transportation costs.

Even if further payments are made, the pet will still not materialise as it is likely to not exist.

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And in a bid to put a stop to the scams, the team have issued top tips on how to stay safe when purchasing pets:

  • Be cautious if the seller initially requests payment via one method, but later claims that due to ‘issues with their account’ they will need to take the payment via an alternative method such as a bank transfer.
  • Consider conducting research on other information provided by the seller, for example a mobile phone number or email address used by the seller could alert you to any negative information associated with the number/email address online.
  • Request details of the courier company being used and consider researching it.
  • Agree a suitable time to meet face-to-face to agree the purchase and to collect the pet. If the seller is reluctant to meet then it could be an indication that the pet does not exist.
  • A genuine seller should be keen to ensure that the pet is going to a caring and loving new home. If the seller does not express any interest in you and the pet’s new home, be wary.
  • If you think the purchase price is too good to be true then it probably is, especially if the pet is advertised as a pure-breed.
  • When thinking of buying a pet, consider buying them in person from rescue centres or from reputable breeders.
  • Do not be afraid to request copies of the pet’s inoculation history, breed paperwork and certification prior to agreeing a sale. If the seller is reluctant or unable to provide this information it could be an indication that either the pet does not exist or the pet has been illegally bred e.g. it originates from a puppy farm.

A puppy farm is a commercial dog breeding enterprise where the sole aim is to maximise profit for the least investment. Commercial dog breeders must be registered with their local authority and undergo regular inspections to ensure that the puppies are bred responsibly and are in turn fit and healthy.

Illegally farmed puppies will often be kept in inadequate conditions and are more likely to suffer from ailments and illnesses associated with irresponsible breeding.

A spokesperson from Essex Trading Standards, said: "If you have been affected this or any other scam, please report it to us via 0808 223 1133."