RCMP in Norman Wells are warning the public of an online scam involving husky puppies.
Police say they have received multiple complaints of people being scammed while trying to buy dogs through buy-and-sell pages on Facebook.
The advertisement offers husky puppies for sale, but once someone sends money via e-transfer, the scammer ceases all communications with the potential buyer.
Police say the same post has been shared on buy-and-sell pages across the Northwest Territories.
The public is reminded to do its homework when buying anything online, especially if the seller is from outside the territory.
“The online market place is growing every day and with it, so are the different types of frauds,” said RCMP Cst. Andy Bezanson of the financial crimes section based in Yellowknife.
“Organized crime and criminal elements can easily post the same scam to hundreds of different communities quickly and cheaply.
“I’d encourage people to only buy things online from known persons or companies.”
If you believe you’ve been the victim of an online scam, contact your local RCMP detachment.
