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Santander Issues £160,000 Warning to Anyone Who Wants a Pet
Santander said pet scams on social media and online marketplaces stole nearly £160,000 in three months, with women and over-46s most often targeted.
- Santander UK's "Scamtracker" data reveals that nearly £160,000 was stolen from customers between January and March through fraudulent pet listings on social media and online marketplaces.
- Pet-Related fraud ranks as the second-largest category of purchase scams, contributing to more than £3.4 million lost overall in the first quarter of 2026, trailing only vehicle scams.
- The bank's data indicates that women and customers aged 46 and above are particularly vulnerable, with scammers targeting listings for miniature dachshunds, cockapoo puppies, cats, reptiles, and horses.
- Chris Ainsley, head of fraud risk management at Santander UK, advised buyers to verify seller legitimacy, stating: "If 2026 is the year you plan to welcome a furry, feathered or even scaly companion into your home, it's vital to do your homework."
- Santander recommends performing reverse image searches on photos and insisting on in-person visits to verify the animal exists, while warning customers never to share one-time passcodes or pay large upfront deposits.
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What Is Pet Scam? UK’s Major Bank Santander Warns of Five-Fold Surge in Fake Online Listings Selling Pets and Duping People
Santander UK reports a five-fold surge in pet scams, with nearly Euro 160,000 stolen in Q1 2026 compared to late 2025. Fraudsters target buyers via social media for deposits or fake vet fees. Victims over 46 are most affected. The bank has urged in-person visits and reverse image searches to verify sellers and protect against the Euro 3.4m fraud wave. What Is Pet Scam? UK’s Major Bank Santander Warns of Five-Fold Surge in Fake Online Listings Se…
Plymouth Herald+2 Reposted by 2 other sources
Santander issues £160,000 warning to anyone who wants a pet
Women and customers over 46 are at greatest risk
·Plymouth, United Kingdom
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Total News Sources30
Leaning Left1Leaning Right2Center25Last UpdatedBias Distribution89% Center
Bias Distribution
- 89% of the sources are Center
89% Center
C 89%
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