Advice from Western Union : protect yourself from possible scams and internet fraud

From the Western Union website and their internet fraud section

" Online Fraud

Sending money to someone you don't know? You could be at risk for consumer fraud.

You're contemplating the purchase of a puppy, parrot, monkey, etc from an alleged animal dealer, broker, breeder, etc in the African country of Cameroon, a total stranger who has posted a photograph of a cute, darling, adorable pet on the internet.

The Western Union Money Transfer service is a great way to send money to people you know and trust. If you need to send money to someone you don’t know well, you may be putting yourself at risk for fraud.

It's all a matter of trust; who can you trust, especially on the internet?

Because we care about consumers, Western Union urges you to protect yourself from fraud by considering the following:

Never send money to a stranger using a money transfer service.

Especaially in another country; once you send the cash, the likelihood of getting it back is nil to none.

Beware of deals or opportunities that seem too good to be true.

If it's too good to be true; it's too good to be true; there are no free lunches in this world.

Check out the prevailing price of that puppy, parrot, or monkey in your local market area; be a wise and smart shopper.

Don’t use money transfer services to pay for things like online auction purchases.

Never send money to pay for taxes or fees on foreign lottery winnings.


If you think you've been a victim of fraud, contact us at spoof@westernunion.com."