SPCA East Texas says their Facebook was hacked

TYLER — Managers of the SPCA of East Texas Facebook account noticed several posts on their page on Saturday, that they did not publish. According to our news partner KETK, the posts, that are still up, include pictures of dogs ready for adoption, but with a catch. The post alleged applicants had to pay a deposit, something the shelter does not require.

“Our main page had been hacked, all of the administrators were taken off the page and nobody was able to access,” Karen Kilgore, with the SPCA of East Texas, said. Those who hacked the account posted several dogs, including French bulldogs and yorkies, and asked for a $400 deposit. “We do not take deposits. We go with best fit, so a lot of people realized something was up, it must not be us, but some people did not. They fell victim and lost several hundred [dollars], one lady I know at least $600,” Kilgore said.

The shelter still does not have access to their Facebook account, a platform they used to promote animals that needed forever homes.

“I feel it has made a dent and there’s not a good way to reach, 35,000 people. You’re not going to pop emails daily, so, yes, it has definitely impacted us, unfortunately,” Kilgore said. Kilgore said they have attempted to contact Facebook to report fraud, but still no luck. The nonprofit said they have now called the FBI for help. It would be considered an internet crime and trying to get somebody with some muscle to help us because we are totally locked out,” Kilgore said.

The SPCA’s website, Instagram and Venmo have not been compromised.

Before making another Facebook account, the SPCA of East Texas hopes to regain access or have their original account permanently deleted.

If people see a dog or cat on the organizations Facebook page and question if it is available, they are advised to give them a call to confirm. Their phone number is 903-596-7722.