Aug 27, 2023

Sheriff reports missing pet phone scam

Posted Aug 27, 2023 8:00 PM

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating another unique phone scam.

Sedgwick County Animal Control has recently become aware of a scam involving someone posing as an Animal Control officer over the phone, according to Sedgwick County Lt. Nathan Gibbs.

These calls may be manipulated to appear as “Animal Control” on caller ID. On the calls, the scammer claims to have located a missing pet, that the pet is injured, and that immediate payment is required for the pet to receive emergency medical treatment. The scammer then attempts to collect credit card information or to receive payment through a mobile app. Individuals who have reported their pets missing online are the targets of the calls and this is a scam.

Sedgwick County Animal Control will never call for credit card information or other forms of payment for an animal’s medical treatment. If you receive such a request, hang up and call Sedgwick County Animal Control at 316-660-7070.

Be wary of unsolicited requests for credit card or personal information over the phone, by email, or online.