At Lancaster Puppies, we care deeply about the safety and security of our community. Unfortunately, scammers and fraudsters target both buyers and sellers across all online platforms. It is important to stay vigilant, trust your instincts, and know the warning signs.
This guide will help you recognize common scams and know how to protect yourself when using Lancaster Puppies.
Common Scams Targeting Buyers
1. Requests for Payment Before Meeting the Puppy
Scammers often ask for deposits or full payment before you've had a chance to see the puppy in person or on video.
Whenever possible, visit the puppy at the seller's home or arrange a live video call before sending any money.
2. Requests for Untraceable Payments
Be cautious if asked to pay by "Friends & Family" payment methods, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, gift cards, or money orders.
Always use secure, traceable payment methods.
3. Fake Shipping and Delivery Scams
Scammers may claim they need extra fees for shipping, "insurance," or crate rentals after you've paid a deposit.
Lancaster Puppies does not offer shipping services, and legitimate sellers will make pickup arrangements clear before payment.
4. "Too Good to Be True" Prices
Puppies advertised for extremely low prices are a common red flag.
High-quality, responsibly bred puppies typically reflect appropriate pricing for the breed.
5. Emotional Manipulation Scams
Scammers may create urgent or emotional stories to pressure you into quick payment (e.g., "I’m moving," "I have to rehome urgently," "My child is sick").
6. Phishing Attempts
Watch for suspicious emails or messages pretending to be from Lancaster Puppies, asking you to click links or provide sensitive information.
Always double-check the sender's email address and only log into your Lancaster Puppies account via our official website.
Common Scams Targeting Sellers
1. Overpayment Scams
A "buyer" offers to pay more than the asking price, then asks you to refund the excess amount.
These are usually connected to fraudulent checks or stolen payment methods.
2. Third-Party Pickup Scams
A "buyer" says they will send a shipper or courier to pick up the puppy, then demands you pay fees on their behalf.
3. Stolen Payment Details
- Some scammers will pay with stolen credit cards or hacked payment accounts.
- If something feels suspicious, verify the identity of the buyer and use trusted payment methods.
4. Phishing Attempts Targeting Sellers
- Fraudsters may impersonate Lancaster Puppies or fake "payment confirmation" emails asking you to click suspicious links or "verify" your listing.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Urgent requests for money or "holding deposits"
Requests for payment outside the Lancaster Puppies platform
Sellers refusing to let you visit or video call with the puppy
Spelling or grammar mistakes in messages
Overly generic responses that don’t match your questions
Unverifiable shipping or insurance companies
Buyers who refuse to verify their ID
How to Protect Yourself
Never send money without verifying the puppy's existence and the seller’s identity.
Meet the seller and the puppy whenever possible, either in person or via live video.
Use secure, traceable payment methods.
Be cautious of urgent or emotional pleas for quick payment.
If something feels wrong, trust your instincts.
Keep records of all communication, payment receipts, and listing screenshots.
What to Do If You Suspect a Scam
Do not send any money.
Stop communication immediately.
Save all messages, screenshots, and payment details.
If you have lost money, immediately contact your bank or payment provider to see if a recovery is possible and report the scammer.
Staying informed and cautious can make all the difference. If you're ever unsure about a listing, a payment, or a communication you've received, please reach out to our Trust & Safety team. We are here to help and committed to keeping our community safe.
Need Help?
We’re here for you! If you run into any issues or have questions, easily send us a support ticket by filling in this Support Ticket form