A distressing scam is unfolding, targeting pet owners throughout the United Kingdom. Exploiting the vulnerability of distraught pet owners, fraudsters are demanding large sums of money in exchange for the safe return of missing pets. This heartless scheme is mainly carried out through social media and lost pet forums, where posts about missing dogs and cats provide leads for these scammers.
The Method of Operation
The con artists identify potential victims and resort to threatening and aggressive phone calls. They claim to have the missing animals and set a non-negotiable ransom for their safe return. The demanded amounts range from £500 to £2000, and the victims are threatened with harm to their pets if they involve the police or fail to meet the ransom demands.
The Disturbing Impact
Areas such as Greater Manchester and Cumbria have been particularly affected, with Cumbria alone reporting over 200 victims of this scam. The stories of these victims reveal a bleak situation. In one case, a man from Greater Manchester was shocked when he received a fraudulent demand of £2000 for the return of his missing Yorkshire terrier. In another instance, a woman from Wigan was coldly told to pay £500 or risk losing her beloved missing cat forever.
Apprehending the Offenders
The most significant arrest related to these scams so far is that of Brandon Woolveridge. He was convicted on nine counts of blackmail and one count of theft and has been sentenced to 44 months in prison. However, the issue is far from resolved, as many other fraudsters are still at large. Authorities have advised pet owners to be cautious when dealing with calls about their missing pets, suggesting that they meet callers in public places and avoid being alone.
