Due to COVID-19, demand for puppies is much higher than usual and potential puppy parents aren't able to meet their new furry friend before committing to the sale.

Even though puppies soon become members of the family they should still be looked at as an investment and prospective puppy parents should consider the risks before buying one.

Fair Trading NSW has reported an increase in scammers posting fake classified ads on websites, in the paper, and on social media platforms, asking for thousands of dollars for non-existent puppies.

The safest option might be to hold off buying a pet until you're able to meet it in person.

If the price of the puppy is significantly higher or lower than the going rate, it's a good indicator something's not right.

Victims of fraud should contact their financial institution and ACCC immediately to report the scam.

Farmers to buckle up

The NSW government has launched a new campaign urging farmers using side-by-side vehicles to wear seat belts following a spate of deaths across the state.

The campaign is focused on lifting on-farm safety following a rise in preventable deaths in side-by-side vehicles.

These tragic accidents shouldn't happen and this is an important reminder to farmers that despite being the safer option, side-by-side vehicles can still be deadly if not used safely.

Seven people across NSW have lost their lives in the last twelve months in side-by-side vehicle accidents which may have been prevented if the right safety measures were taken.

The NSW government offers safety rebates to help farmers, including $2000 to buy a safer side-by-side vehicle, $600 for the an operator protective (rollover) device, $90 for a compliant helmet and $500 for a drone.

For more information on safety, rebates and training, please visit: safework.nsw.gov.au/hazards-a-z/quad-bikes-and-side-by-side-vehicles.