QUICK SUMMARY
Scammers have been impersonating the Oregon Humane Society, targeting pet owners who have lost their animals by claiming to have found them and demanding payment for medical care. The organization is investigating how these scammers obtain personal information and warns pet owners to be vigilant against such fraudulent calls. Affected individuals are encouraged to report their experiences to the authorities.
The Oregon Humane Society has issued a warning about a recent scam targeting pet owners who are searching for lost animals. Over the past month, scammers have been impersonating the organization, using spoofed phone numbers to make calls that appear legitimate. Victims have reported being told that their lost pets are injured and that payment is required for their care, leading to significant financial losses. Laura Klink, a public information officer for the humane society, expressed concerns about the ease with which scammers can obtain personal information. She suggested that this information might be sourced from social media or community postings about lost pets. The organization is actively investigating the matter but is struggling to determine the full extent of the scam's reach. Klink emphasized the importance of vigilance among pet owners and encouraged anyone who suspects they have fallen victim to report it. A similar scam has also been reported in Pierce County, Washington, raising concerns about a broader pattern of fraudulent activity.