The scam works like this: You’re instructed to purchase a bottle of wine valued at $15 or more or a wine gift card and send it to a wine lover in your life. In return, you’re told you’ll receive as many as 36 bottles or gift cards. The schemer claims to need six people to participate or preferably up to 36. Users are encouraged to invite others to participate, and then they will receive information on where to mail gifts. Of course, starting this gift exchange comes with a catch. The scheme will ask you for your personal information, such as your address.
Another version of this scheme is the “Secret Sister Gift exchange.” Instead of wine, this scheme’s focus is $10 gifts.
BBB offers these tips if you receive an invitation for one of these exchanges:
• Remember, if it sounds too-good-to-be true, it probably is.
• Never give out personal information.
• Do your research. Check with BBB before becoming involved in suspicious and possible illegal activity. Keep in mind, chances are you’ll receive little or no return from your investment.
• Don’t click on unfamiliar links in e-mails or social media posts.
• Beware of posts/offers with misspellings and bad grammar. It may be a good sign you’re dealing with scam artist.
• Watch for social media posts trying to win you over by claiming they are legal and endorsed by the government.
• Report the post if you see one. For instance, on Facebook, click the download pointing arrow in the top-right corner of the post. Then, click report post or report photo. And, finally select an option that best describes the issue and follow the on-screen instructions.
• Completely ignore offers like these.
Remember, pyramid schemes are illegal either by mail or on social media if money or other items of value are requested with assurance of a sizeable return for those who participate. Also, according to the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s gambling and pyramid scheme laws, gifts chains like this are illegal and those who participate can be subject to penalties and mail fraud.
If you have any questions about this scheme or any other scam, you can always get help from your BBB. Visit www.bbb.org or call (937) 222-5825 or (800) 776-5301.
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