With Mother’s Day and Father’s Day coming up that means shopping for unique gifts is too. Before you buy on social media platforms be wary of scams. Financial expert Tobias Robinson warns “Platforms like TikTok Shop, Instagram and Facebook Marketplace have made it incredibly easy for products to go viral overnight, and criminals are exploiting that speed.” He shares that fake or counterfeit products are among the most common traps laid for unsuspecting buyers. Fake sellers are everywhere. You shouldn’t trust that platforms filter them out. So, here are some tips to avoid online shopping scams:
- Fake Reviews
- Incorrect Bank Details. Scammers may email saying your banking info is not correct. NEVER give banking info out via email or phone. Contact retailers directly
- The ‘HOT DEAL!’ Scam. If it sounds too good to be true or the price is amazing, chances are you’ll send your money and never get the product
- Fake Social Media Profiles. Never give info to anyone on social media. Legit brands won’t ask
- ‘Grey Market’ Products. Products sold outside authorized channels may not meet brand standards.
- Do not on shopping links in unexpected emails, texts, or direct messages.
Source: Newsweek