Scam Alert for Maine Animal Shelters: Fake Checks Could Cost You Everything

Like DJ Khaled says… "And another one!" 

Another scam going around that we all should be prepared for. Scammers are currently going after Maine animal shelters with an extremely sophisticated check scam, and sadly, it could cost you everything, if you fall for it.  

Scams have become so evolved and high-tech that it is almost impossible to spot something if it’s happening to you.  

Susan Gayle, founder of Little Paws Big Hearts Pekingese Rescue in Portland, almost fell for this scheme.

Little Paws Big Hearts is an essential rescue that saves Pekingese dogs from around the country. Take a look at this recent post of them saving this little cutie below.

It all began with an email from someone out of state wanting to give a very generous donation.

As per WGME, a few weeks later, a check for $3,951 arrived, a dream come true for any animal shelter, right?

Well, it was too good to be true and thanks to Susan’s skepticism, it saved her.  

The check arrived from California and it was linked to a gun deals in Tennessee that had a name link to other scam reports across the entire country.  

Read More: Here's Why this New Maine AI Scam is Almost Impossible to Spot 

How does the scam work? 

As the report states, the bad guys will send a fraudulent check to your animal rescue or shelter, then demand a refund the moment you deposit it.

When the bank later finds out the check is a fake, you’re left responsible for the lost funds. No matter how much they "donated."

Pretty smart huh? And for struggling shelters this could seem like it’s a life saver in the moment, but actually end up costing you everything.  

Let’s protect your shelter! 

Here are a few tips, according to WGME to help protect your shelter,

1. Check the source- Make sure to verify every donation coming in, even if it seems legit.  

• Look for any red flags, like misspelling, usual amounts, or businesses that are totally unrelated to animal welfare.  

• Contact your bank and let them know your are suspicious of the check before you deposit  

• Report it share any scam with other local rescues and shelters so they are also aware.