Mundelein, Illinois – Mundelein police are warning residents about scammers targeting pet owners who post online about missing animals, demanding money for their return.
According to the Mundelein Police Department, scammers are contacting residents who share lost pet alerts on social media, falsely claiming the animal has been found. In some cases, callers demand payment for alleged “emergency surgery” or other urgent medical treatment before returning the pet.
Police said scammers may send photos of the missing pet taken directly from social media posts to make the claims appear legitimate. Victims are then pressured to send money quickly.
Authorities emphasized that residents should not send money and should verify claims using official phone numbers they locate independently.
“If you get a call, don’t send money,” the department advised in a public notice. “Verify using an official phone number you locate yourself.”
Anyone who believes they have been targeted can report the incident to the Mundelein Police Department in person or online through the department’s reporting system at frontlinepss.com/mundelein-il.
The warning is especially relevant to families and students who frequently use social media to share missing pet alerts.
Police urge residents to remain cautious and report suspicious activity.
