Toronto Police are warning residents to beware of scammers selling puppies and other pets online as people seek company as we now spend more time at home due to COVID-19.

Police said the pet scam is rampant online and people have to be careful and look for red flags as more people purchase companionship with a credit card.

Officers said scammers use photos of animals obtained elsewhere and post them online. They then take the money of good-natured pet buyers and are never heard of again, leaving some of the potential owners broken-hearted.

The warning stems from a recent case in 22 Division, in which officers responded to a robbery call where a puppy was kidnapped.

“The officers acted quickly in locating and arresting the suspect,” detectives said in a statement. “The puppy was safe and happily reunited with the owner.”

Police are warning that if you’re planning on buying or selling a pet, to do the exchange in a public place with video surveillance.

Always bring a friend or a family member with you and don’t forget to trust your gut if something doesn’t seem right, officers said.