The Most Common Scams for Custom Pet Portraits on Etsy to Avoid in 2026

Protecting Yourself from Scams When Buying Custom Pet Portraits on Etsy

Etsy is a vibrant marketplace for unique, custom-made items like pet portraits. However, like any online platform, it can attract scammers. Being aware of common fraudulent practices is crucial for a safe and enjoyable buying experience.

Specific Scams to Watch Out For

• ✓ Digital Art Plagiarism: Be cautious of listings that appear to be stolen or heavily copied from other artists. Scammers might present artwork as their original creation when it's not. Always check the seller's reviews and portfolio for consistency and originality. If a design looks too good to be true or uses generic, unoriginal elements, it might be plagiarized.
• ✓ Off-Site Transaction Request: Scammers may try to lure you off Etsy to complete the transaction. They might claim a better price or a more secure payment method outside of Etsy's platform. This is a major red flag, as it bypasses Etsy's buyer protection policies and increases your risk of fraud.
• ✓ Seeded Review Item: Some sellers might engage in fraudulent review practices to inflate their reputation. This can involve fake reviews or a practice where items are sent out with the expectation of a positive review in return. Look for genuine, detailed reviews that discuss the product and the buying experience, rather than generic or overly enthusiastic praise.

How to Verify Legitimacy

When purchasing a custom pet portrait, carefully examine the seller's profile, read reviews thoroughly, and look for clear communication regarding the creation process and delivery times. Genuine artists are usually transparent and happy to answer questions about their work and process.

For high-value custom pet portraits, consider using 'Safe Trade Services' Premium Plan for an added layer of security. For less expensive items, the Basic Plan can also provide valuable verification.

General Security Tips for Etsy Transactions

• ✓ Always use Etsy's integrated payment system for secure transactions.
• ✓ Be skeptical of listings with unusually low prices or suspiciously perfect reviews.
• ✓ If a seller requests payment via unusual methods (e.g., gift cards, wire transfers), it's a significant red flag.
• ✓ Report any suspicious activity or listings directly to Etsy.