Santander UK has issued a warning after a surge in pet scams (Image: Getty)
Santander has issued a warning after a surge in pet scams saw almost £160,000 was stolen from customers. Data from the lender showed the staggering amount was taken by scammers from customers responding to listings on social media and online platforms offering pets for sale.
The £160,000 stolen between January and March this year compares to a total of £29,735 reported stolen due to pet scams in the fourth quarter of 2025. Data from the bank indicates women and customers aged 46 or older are particularly likely to be targeted.
Chris Ainsley, head of fraud risk management at Santander UK, said: “If 2026 is the year you plan to welcome a furry, feathered or even scaly companion into your home, it’s vital to do your homework.”
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Santander says you should do your homework before buying a pet over social media (Image: Getty)
Mr Ainsley added: “Always research the seller carefully and choose reputable sources. Taking these steps won’t just protect your finances – it also helps ensure your new pet has come from a safe, and responsible environment.”
Common tactics used by scammers include asking for money upfront as a deposit, requesting funds to cover delivery of a pet or money to cover vet bills and immunisations.
Claims received by the bank have involved a range of animals, from desirable breeds of cats and dogs, such as miniature dachshunds and cockapoo puppies, to parrots, reptiles, fish and horses.
In total, more than £3.4million was stolen via purchase scams in the first quarter of 2026, with pet-related scams being the second biggest scam in terms of losses after vehicle scams, according to the bank.
Santander UK urged people to be wary of social media adverts, which it said is a common place for criminals to post fake ads for pets.
The bank also recommended doing background checks on the seller and the pet. It suggested reverse image searching any photos to see if the animal has been listed elsewhere.
Asking to see the animal before buying and being cautious about upfront payments are recommended by the lender too.
Dr Rasha Kassem, who leads the Fraud Research Group at Aston University, said Santander’s figures highlight a sharp increase in pet-related fraud.
She said that as with most fraud, the figures are likely to understate the true scale due to under-reporting.
The expert said: “The emotional nature of pet purchases makes this fraud particularly effective. Buyers are often motivated by urgency and attachment, which criminals exploit.”
Dr Kassem added: “Tackling pet fraud requires a combined effort. Consumers can play a role by remaining alert to warning signs, but prevention cannot rely on vigilance alone. Greater responsibility must sit with platforms, financial institutions and regulators.
“Recognising these incidents as fraud – not simply scams – is essential to ensuring they receive the attention and coordinated response they require.”