Breaking Down a Nashville Scam Involving a Missing Pet



A recent case in East Nashville shows how strategic scams have become — and how quickly they can escalate.

After Stewart Moore’s cat, Alfie, slipped outside, the family did what most people would do: they posted on social media asking for help. Within a day, Moore received a call from someone claiming to be with Metro Police. The caller said Alfie had been hit by a car and needed emergency surgery. The number appeared legitimate. The amount requested? $2,160. It had to be sent immediately.

Shortly after, another call came in — this time from someone claiming to be with the Nashville Humane Society. The urgency intensified. The pressure increased. Payment instructions were given for Venmo, Zelle, and Apple Pay.

The family sent the money.

There was no injured cat. The calls were spoofed. The money was gone.

This wasn’t random. It was calculated.

What Went Wrong — The Red Flags

Scammers understand human behavior. They rely on three main factors: urgency, authority, and emotional vulnerability.

There were several key indicators in this case:

  • The caller claimed to be law enforcement.
  • The situation required immediate action.
  • Payment was requested through peer-to-peer apps.
  • The phone number appeared legitimate.
  • Pressure tactics were used to keep the victim engaged.

One of the biggest red flags in scams like this is when someone says, “Don’t hang up.” That statement is intentional. It prevents you from independently verifying the information.

If something feels off, pause. Hang up. Look up the agency’s official number and call directly. Do not rely on the caller ID. Spoofing technology makes it easy to manipulate what shows on your screen.

Fact-check before you act.

Why Social Media Makes This Easier

When people post about lost pets, emergencies, or fundraisers, scammers monitor those posts. Public information provides context, names, timelines, and emotional leverage.

That visibility becomes vulnerability.

This is why cybersecurity matters. If you receive password compromise notifications, unexpected login alerts, or messages asking for sensitive information:

  • Change your password immediately.
  • Enable two-factor authentication.
  • Check account activity.
  • Report impersonation accounts.
  • Request an immediate takedown through Meta if necessary.
  • Document everything.

The faster you respond, the more control you regain.

These scams are not accidental. They are intentional, targeted, and timed to coincide with moments of stress.

Legitimate law enforcement agencies and shelters do not demand emergency payments through Venmo, Zelle, Apple Pay, gift cards, or wire transfers. If payment is requested that way, that alone should cause you to stop.

Panic is the tactic. Verification is the defense.

Slow down. Confirm independently. Protect your information.

And if someone tells you not to hang up — that’s exactly when you should.



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