Online Horse sellers may not always be genuine. Here are the things to be aware of when you are looking to buy a horse online.
1. The deal is too good to be true.
2. They don’t allow you to have a vet (of your choosing) to do a pre-purchase exam.
If they don’t allow the exam, or insist you use their own vet, don’t proceed. They could easily impersonate a vet and provide you with a report for a horse that doesn’t exist!
3. You’re asked odd, unrelated or vague questions. The questions may be meant to distract you or make you feel more at ease. If they want to engage in a long series of emails, ask them to call you instead and speak in person.
4. The seller demands personal information.
You should never have to disclose anything in order to proceed with a sale.
5. Complicated payment instructions.
If they insist you pay through Western Union, or with a cheque or bank draft do your homework and find out where the money will be sent. Scam accounts are often based overseas.
Bonus Red Flag: The seller has bad grammar and poor spelling. This is very common in scam emails, or when you’re being contacted by a child posing as an adult. Either way, it’s probably going to be a waste of your time.
The information was taken from here: https://www.savvyhorsewoman.com/2018/10/horse-sale-scams-tips-for-safe-buying-and-selling.html