Cute, irresistible, and… free. This is the scam that has captured the attention of hundreds of people: tiny toy poodles, among the most sought-after breeds of the moment, offered (oddly) as free gifts. But behind the adorable images and promises of easy adoptions lies a well-orchestrated scam, the so-called "puppy scam" : ads on social media groups and marketplaces , realistic photos—often generated by artificial intelligence—and demands for upfront payments that turn the dream of a puppy into a nightmare.

A new analysis by Truffa.net , a portal specializing in information and prevention of online and offline scams, reconstructs the phenomenon. The scam, as has been established, follows a well-established pattern: scammers post ads on social networks, marketplaces, or dedicated websites, attracting the attention of potential buyers or adopters. Initially, everything seems promising: the initial contact is quick and reassuring. Then, an advance payment is requested, which is supposed to cover transportation, vaccination, and adoption paperwork . Once the initial payment is made, the scam often continues. The victim is asked to make further payments, justified by unexpected events or additional costs: transportation insurance, logistical issues, medical documentation. Payments are usually requested via bank transfers, top-ups on prepaid cards, or other methods that are difficult to recover.

In some more specific cases, the request becomes even more structured: a specific amount, equal to 260 euros, is requested, to be sent not through traditional banking channels but in the form of Steam gift cards, used to purchase and play PC video games. This method makes the money difficult to recover and more difficult to trace.

After receiving the money, the seller either disappears or continues to prolong the request for funds until the victim stops paying. According to Nino Lucchesi, an expert at Truffa.net, recognizing certain recurring patterns is essential to protecting yourself : excessively low prices or "free" offers , requests for advance payment , the inability to see the animal in person, and a sense of urgency in closing the deal .

(Unioneonline/vf)

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