Lisbon City Council has issued a public warning after uncovering a scam that targets owners of missing pets at an emotionally vulnerable moment. According to municipal officials, fraudsters are posing as professionals from the Lisbon Animal Shelter and contacting people whose animals have recently gone missing. These fake representatives claim to have found the animals and demand payment before arranging their return.
The city council is urging residents to remain cautious and to treat any unexpected contact with suspicion, particularly when money is requested. Officials stress that the scam preys on distress and urgency, making it especially harmful for pet owners already anxious about their animals’ wellbeing.
How the Scam Typically Works
In recent weeks, several cases have been reported involving people who shared information about their missing pets on social media or online platforms. Shortly afterward, they were contacted individuals claiming to work for the Lisbon Animal Shelter. These callers or message senders often state that the animal has been found and may have required medical treatment or surgery.
To make the story seem credible, scammers frequently use detailed explanations and reassuring language. They then demand payment through digital methods such as MBWay transfers or Multibanco references, presenting the payment as a necessary step before the animal can be released back to its owner. Once the payment is made, contact usually stops, leaving victims without their money and without their pet.
City Council Clarifies Shelter Procedures
Lisbon City Council has been clear in stating that the Lisbon Animal Shelter does not operate in this way. Officials emphasized that the shelter never requests payments through MBWay or Multibanco references in exchange for returning animals to their owners. Any such request should immediately raise alarm.
The municipality also clarified that official communications from city services follow established procedures and do not rely on informal messaging or urgent payment demands. making this distinction public, the council hopes to help residents quickly identify fraudulent attempts.
Advice for Pet Owners
Authorities are advising anyone who receives suspicious messages or calls to avoid making any payment, no matter how convincing the story may sound. Instead, residents are encouraged to verify information directly contacting the Lisbon Animal Shelter through official channels.
The city council has also asked victims or targets of attempted fraud to report incidents to the Public Security Police as soon as possible. Reporting these cases helps authorities track patterns, warn others, and potentially identify those responsible.
Why Missing Pet Cases Are Targeted
Scammers often exploit moments of emotional stress, and the disappearance of a pet creates ideal conditions for manipulation. Owners are usually eager for any positive news and may act quickly without questioning details. Fraudsters rely on this urgency, using official sounding language and references to medical care to pressure victims into paying.
Officials warn that as long as people share missing pet information publicly, scammers may continue to monitor these platforms for opportunities. While sharing information remains important for recovery efforts, awareness of potential fraud is essential.
Staying Vigilant as Reports Increase
The Lisbon City Council noted that the scam has been reported multiple residents over a short period, suggesting it may be spreading. Officials are asking the public to share verified information about the fraud with friends and family, particularly those who own pets.
staying alert, refusing suspicious payment requests, and reporting incidents promptly, residents can help prevent further victims and protect others during an already stressful situation.
