Police are warning potential pet owners to be wary of scams involving the sale of kittens and puppies.

The warning comes after the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau and Action Fraud noticed a rise in the reporting of pets, and in particular puppies and kittens, being advertised for sale via popular online auction websites.

The fraudsters will place an advert of the pet for sale, often claiming that the pet is currently held somewhere less accessible or overseas.

Upon agreement of a sale, the suspect will request an advance payment by bank transfer.

However, the pet does not materialise and the fraudster will ask for additional costs.