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Beware of Scam Targeting Lost Pet Owners with San Francisco Phone Number

Pets are part of our families and losing a beloved pet can be a distressing experience. Unfortunately, scammers are trying to exploit loving pet owners in the San Francisco Bay Area who are desperate to find their missing companions. San Francisco Animal Care & Control has issued a warning regarding a new scam that targets individuals who have lost their pets showing up as a 415-area code on your phone. Here is the scam and how you can protect yourself.

According to the agency, scammers are contacting people who have posted about their lost pets on social media platforms. They impersonate SF Animal Care & Control staff members, using the shelter's phone number (415-554-6364) to establish credibility. These fraudsters claim to have the pet in question and demand payment through gift cards or payment apps.

SF Animal Care & Control's Reminder:

To ensure the safety and well-being of pet owners, SF Animal Care & Control staff emphasizes that they will never request payment over the phone. It is crucial to remain vigilant and cautious when dealing with anyone claiming to be from the shelter who demands payment for the return of a lost pet.

Protecting Yourself and Your Pet:

1.Verify the Caller: When contacted by someone claiming to be from SF Animal Care & Control, ask for their name, position, and a callback number. Independently verify this information by contacting the shelter directly using their official website or publicly listed phone number.

2.Secure Payment Channels: The shelter does not accept payment through gift cards or payment apps. Beware of any requests for unconventional payment methods. Legitimate organizations typically have established and secure payment systems in place.

3.Report Suspicious Activity: If you encounter any suspicious calls or messages related to the pet scam, report them immediately to local law enforcement authorities and SF Animal Care & Control. By reporting these incidents, you can help protect others from falling victim.

Losing a pet is already an emotionally challenging experience, and the awful scammers who prey on vulnerable pet owners make it even more stressful. San Francisco Animal Care & Control urges residents to be cautious and vigilant when dealing with anyone claiming to have their lost pets. Remember, the shelter will never ask for payment over the phone. Protect yourself and your pets, and help spread awareness about this scam within the community.


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