Source: KIRO 7
Scammers are targeting grieving pet owners by impersonating local animal shelters and demanding fraudulent payments for supposed Veterinary care. Justin Hills, whose 14-year-old cat, Little Wayne Shorter, went missing in November, was nearly deceived by a scammer claiming to be from the Seattle Animal Shelter.
The scammer, who had researched Hills’ personal information, falsely claimed that his cat had been hit by a car and needed $2,800 for emergency surgery, requesting payment via Venmo. Fortunately, Hills sensed something was wrong and consulted his bank, which confirmed it was a scam. The Seattle Animal Shelter warns that they never request payment over the phone and urges pet owners to verify lost pet claims directly. Hills, while heartbroken over his missing cat, now warns others to stay vigilant and avoid emotion-driven scams.
Read the full story HERE: https://www.kiro7.com/news/local/seattle-man-caught-missing-cat-scam/TKXCBXPEUNA4TPBZ3HNIIJQBJU/