URGENT UPDATE: A Valley City man has revealed alarming details about a potential scam targeting cat buyers, specifically those interested in the highly sought-after Maine Coon breed, which can sell for up to $5,000. Bob Nelson, who simply wanted to purchase a cat, found himself inundated with aggressive messages from alleged scammers after expressing interest on social media.
Nelson, overwhelmed by a barrage of texts, described the situation as a “feline trap.” “They are tag-teaming me so I am getting texts about five times every 15 minutes,” he stated. The two individuals, claiming to be from the tri-state region of Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota, initially approached him cordially but quickly escalated their demands.
The alleged scammers insisted on communicating solely via text or email, avoiding phone calls entirely. Their messages took a sinister turn when they began requesting Nelson to purchase gift cards as a deposit for the cat. “Do you have the cards now?” one message repeatedly asked, further intensifying the pressure on Nelson.
Despite their persistent harassment, Nelson has not sent any money or gift cards. He continues to receive messages, including late-night requests, illustrating the relentless nature of this scam. “They are very diligent; they will text me five times in 15 minutes and ask if I have the cards yet,” he said, as his phone chimed with notifications during the interview.
This alarming situation serves as a stark reminder for potential pet buyers to remain vigilant. In 2022, the Cass County Sheriff’s Office issued a warning about scams involving Maine Coon cats, where victims paid for the felines but received nothing in return. Additionally, several Facebook groups have emerged to alert users about ongoing scams, listing common tactics employed by fraudsters.
Nelson hopes his experience will educate others about the risks involved in purchasing pets online. “You have to practice buyer beware,” he cautioned. The emotional impact of such scams can be significant, especially for those eagerly seeking companionship through beloved pets.
If you believe you’ve fallen victim to a similar scam, authorities urge you to contact your local law enforcement agency immediately. As this situation develops, the community remains on high alert for fraudulent activity, emphasizing the need for awareness in an increasingly digital marketplace.
