Scam warning – RSPCA phone scam

One of our nearby NHW groups has reported that one of their residents recently received a phone call from what they say sounded like a "drunk" man claiming to be a representative of the RSPCA.

The caller asked the resident if they owned a dog and then asked if they owned another pet. The resident told the caller to get lost.

Later the resident's wife phoned the RSPCA as a follow up. The local RSPCA apparently checked both their National telemarketing databases and their Overseas databases and there was no similar telemarketing campaign operating. The RSPCA also advised that the resident’s phone number was not listed for telemarketing as the resident presently donates directly on-line.

The wife was informed by the RSPCA Brisbane Branch of a "scam" operating in the Sunshine Coast area, whereby dwellings with dogs are targeted by gangs who "dog-nap".  Apparently they phone the residents claiming to be from the RSPCA to find out if they are dog owners. This particular gang also paints a hot pink spot on the dog-owners residence so members of the gang are aware of which residents to target.

Whether or not this is true, it is certainly a timely reminder never to give out information over the phone to someone you do not know, even if it is something that seems innocuous.

There have been similar stories to this in some of the local newspapers. Pet owners – please be aware that these people could possibly want to "kid-nap" your pet and then ask for a reward.  This type of crime has happened on the Gold Coast and on the Southside according to the resident.