Lost-pet ransom scams: "I have your dog, pay the reward"
What happened
A documented scam pattern that preys on panicked owners. Someone answers your lost-pet post claiming to have your animal and demands a reward or "transport money" up front, often sending a photo of a similar-looking pet or even an AI-generated image based on your own photos. They will not let you see or collect the pet before you pay. Never send money before you have physically confirmed it is your pet. Ask questions only the true finder could answer, and arrange collection in a safe public place.
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