PUBLIC ALERT: Scam Targeting our Rescue Community

SCAM ALERT—We’ve recently uncovered a new scam targeting our rescue community and supporters. Here’s what’s happening:

When BARCS posts animals in urgent need of rescue, many kind-hearted people comment offering pledges—saying things like, “I’ll donate $100 to the rescue that pulls Fluffy.” These pledges are a lifeline for rescue groups, and our team helps by collecting contact info from donors and passing it along to the rescue that steps up.

But now, scammers are watching these public posts. They’re sending direct messages to people who’ve pledged, pretending to be from BARCS, and asking them to “make good” on their pledge and money via Venmo, CashApp or a bogus donation link.

This is NOT how BARCS operates. We never collect pledges this way, and we never DM people asking for donations.

This scam comes on top of the recent phone spoofing scam involving fake calls about lost pets. It’s more important than ever to be vigilant and to help us spread the word.

How to stay safe:

1) If you pledge in the comments, only donate after hearing directly from the rescue, not someone claiming to be BARCS.

2) When in doubt, reach out to us through our website or verified email: give@BARCS.org

3) Please report suspicious accounts and messages to BARCS but also to the platform (in this case, Facebook).