Beware of Fake Holiday Giveaways: How to Identify Online Scams
It’s the season of giving – but beware of those offering gifts that are too good to be true. A new Facebook scam is targeting users with promises of free cash and gift vouchers in the spirit of holiday cheer. See how to spot this fake campaign and protect yourself online.
A Facebook post is circulating offering astonishing gifts – free cash and shopping vouchers.
But before you click “like” and share, remember, it’s all a scam.
The page promoting this fake giveaway, called “Coca Cola FANS” is a new page created recently, with no other content or verifiable information,er no other posts.
In this fraudulent scheme, users are lured into a “ghost draw” – a nonexistent giveaway designed to steal personal information.
The scam relies on typical phishing tactics.
Here’s how to identify fake promotions:
- Urgent language: Scammers often use phrases like "limited-time offer" or "only a few spots left" to pressure you into acting quickly without thinking.
- Unverified accounts: Real companies never offer gifts on new, unverified accounts, check a prospective giveaway by searching online is the first step – look for
Why it Matters: It’s Crucial to Recognize Fake Promotions.
This is not the first time that such fabricated giveaways or promotions disguised as legitimate companies’ through social Lufthansa’s official fan Pages
do not offer giveaways on Facebook," Coca-Cola has clarified in earlier official communications.
The company warns against participating in dubious messages and sharing personal information there
**.
Be wary of promotions not found on official company websites or verified social media platforms.
Always double-check information.
How can consumers identify fake holiday giveaway scams?
## Beware of Fake Holiday Giveaways: How to Identify Online Scams
**Interviewer:** Welcome back to the show. With the holidays just around the corner, many of us are looking for great deals and maybe even entering a few giveaways. But not all online opportunities are created equal. Joining us today is Alex Reed, a consumer advocate from the Federal Trade Commission, to talk about how to avoid falling victim to holiday scams. Welcome to the show!
**Alex Reed:** Thank you for having me!
**Interviewer:** So, Alex Reed, the FTC recently put out a warning about fake shopping websites popping up this time of year. Can you tell us more about what to look out for?
**Alex Reed:** Absolutely. It’s true, scammers love to take advantage of the holiday shopping season. They create fake websites that look just like legitimate businesses, often using stolen logos and photos. They advertise popular items at unbelievably low prices, hoping to lure unsuspecting shoppers. [[1](https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2024/11/dont-let-scammers-get-way-your-holiday-shopping)]
**Interviewer:** That’s scary! What are some red flags that could indicate a site is fake?
**Alex Reed:** There are a few things to watch out for. Be wary of websites with poor grammar or spelling errors, unfamiliar domain names, and a lack of contact information. Also, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
**Interviewer:** What about giveaways? They are especially tempting during the holidays. What should people do to protect themselves?
**Alex Reed:** Giveaways can be great, but again, proceed with caution. Scammers often use fake giveaways to collect your personal information. Always verify the authenticity of a giveaway before you enter. Look for details on the company’s official website or social media pages. Be especially suspicious of giveaways asking for your bank account or social security number.
**Interviewer:** Excellent advice. Any final tips for our viewers?
**Alex Reed:** Stay vigilant! Double-check website addresses, read reviews, and trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is. And remember, you’re not alone. If you think you’ve been scammed, report it to the FTC at [ReportFraud.ftc.gov](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/).
**Interviewer:** Great advice, Alex Reed, thank you so much for joining us today and sharing these helpful tips! Be sure to stay safe and enjoy your holiday shopping!
