“Your Pet’s Microchip Is Expiring”—The Cruel Scam That’s Breaking Hearts
Let’s be honest: we all love our pets.
And will do anything to keep them safe and secure.
Right?
Now, imagine a bunch of immoral people using this attachment of ours to scam us out of precious money.
That’s what’s currently going on.
People are reporting that they are getting emails saying, “Your pet’s microchip is expiring”.
And of course, these worried pet owners click the link, enter their card details, and just like that… they’re getting scammed.
It’s not just about money—it’s about betrayal, fear, and that gut-wrenching realization that someone preyed on your love for your pet.
What the Scam Looks Like
I first heard about this through Cumberland Council’s urgent warning.
They’ve been receiving reports of a new, heartless scam aimed directly at people like you and me—pet parents who’d do anything to keep our furry ones safe.
Here’s how it works:
You get an official-looking email. It says your pet’s microchip is set to expire.
The message makes it sound urgent and serious, warning that if you don’t act now, your pet could be untraceable—or even at risk.
The email includes a link that asks for payment to “renew” the microchip registration, sometimes asking for as much as £180.
But here’s the truth that hit me hard: microchips do not expire. Ever.
Why This Hurts So Much
This isn’t just a scam—it’s emotional manipulation at its worst.
These fraudsters know we’d walk through fire for our pets. They twist that love and urgency against us. They know exactly how to trigger our fear and protectiveness.
It’s not just about losing money—it’s about feeling violated, like someone invaded your home through your inbox and used your love for your dog or cat against you.
And the worst part? Some people don’t even find out until it’s too late.
How to Protect Yourself and Others
Cumberland Council’s advice is crystal clear:
- Don’t click any links in these emails.
- Don’t make a payment.
- Reach out to your pet’s original microchip provider directly—that’s the only source of truth you should trust.
If you ever feel unsure, step back and double-check. No real microchip company will ever say your pet’s chip is expiring. That’s just not how microchips work.
We Need to Look Out for Each Other
If you’re reading this, you’re already one step ahead.
But someone else might fall for it tomorrow. Your friend. Your neighbor. A tired mom just trying to get through the day with her rescue dog curled up beside her.
Please, share this story.
Post it in your local Facebook groups. Send it to your family. Let’s make sure no one else falls victim to this cruel scam. Not on our watch.
Because in a world full of tricksters, the best defense we have is each other. 🐾
