Costco Customers Beware: 10 Shocking Costco Scams That Could Drain Your Wallet!
Don’t let con artists steal your hard-earned money—learn about the latest Costco scams and how to protect yourself now! 🚨 #News #CostcoScams #ConsumerAlert
The Threat to Savvy Shoppers!
MAPLEWOOD, MN – Criminals are targeting your favorite store, Costco, to trick you out of your money with these common scams. If you love a good bargain, Costco is probably on your list of go-to places. Its bulk items and fantastic savings make it a smart choice for shoppers.
However, even though brick-and-mortar stores might seem safer than online shopping, your brand loyalty could make you a target for scams.
Scammers are constantly evolving, and their tactics often mirror online shopping scams. In 2022, the Better Business Bureau reported that 71.6% of people who fell victim to online purchase scams lost money, and the FBI reported over $52 million lost to phishing scams that same year.
Common Costco Scams
Knowing these scams is the first step in protecting your money. Importantly, none of these scams originate from Costco itself.
Exclusive Giveaway Scam
You might receive a text or email claiming you’ve been specially selected for an exclusive giveaway. All you have to do is click a link to enter. Don’t be fooled! These links are a security risk.
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How to Avoid It: Always be cautious of unsolicited messages offering prizes. They are often phishing attempts aimed at stealing your personal information.
Fraudulent Survey Text
Con artists send text messages asking you to answer a few questions for a prize. They might say you only need to pay a small shipping fee. This is a scam.
How to Avoid It: Never provide your financial details in response to unsolicited texts.
Fraudulent Satisfaction Survey Email
Similar to Amazon email scams, these emails appear legitimate, asking for your feedback and promising a reward.
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How to Avoid It: Do not click on links or attachments in unsolicited emails. Check the sender’s email address carefully.
Fraudulent Website
If you land on what looks like Costco’s website without typing the address directly, you might be on a fraudulent site. These sites are set up to steal your money.
How to Avoid It: Verify the URL carefully. Look for HTTPS and a padlock symbol near the address bar to ensure the site is secure.
Free Television Scam
This scam promises a free TV for your loyalty. It’s designed to make you overlook obvious red flags.
How to Avoid It: Be skeptical of offers that seem too good to be true. Costco won’t randomly give away high-ticket items.
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Loyalty Rewards Texts
Texts offering loyalty rewards are usually scams. Costco doesn’t solicit through text messages.
How to Avoid It: If you receive such a text, delete it and don’t click any links.
Overcharge Reimbursement Texts
These texts claim you’ll be reimbursed for being overcharged if you click a link.
How to Avoid It: Ignore and delete these texts. Scams often create a false sense of urgency.
Survey with Exclusive Offer
These surveys promise rewards for answering questions but are designed to steal your personal information.
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How to Avoid It: Stay skeptical of unsolicited surveys promising high-value rewards.
“Redeem Your Gift Card” Scam
Emails or texts offering to redeem a gift card are usually scams.
How to Avoid It: Never click on unsolicited links or attachments. Report and delete these messages.
USPS Scam
Messages claiming the USPS couldn’t deliver your package and asking you to click a link to reschedule are scams.
How to Avoid It: Verify delivery issues directly through the retailer or official USPS channels.
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Signs of a Costco Scam
Recognizing scams can save you money and hassle. Look out for these signs:
- Bogus URLs: Check for slight misspellings or unusual characters.
- Shady Websites: Poor graphics, spelling errors, and inconsistencies are red flags.
- HTTP URLs: Ensure the site uses HTTPS for security.
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Tips for Avoiding Scams
- Beware of Marketplace Sellers: Verify sellers on sites like Costco Next.
- Do Your Research: Check reviews and the legitimacy of websites.
- Learn Phishing Email Signs: Look out for strange email addresses and too-good-to-be-true offers.
What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed
If you fall for a scam, take immediate action:
- Report the Scam: Notify Costco and law enforcement.
- Alert Your Credit Card Company: They can help reverse fraudulent charges.
- Change Your Passwords: Update your passwords for all accounts.
Stay vigilant and protect your hard-earned money from these common scams. For more details on staying safe, visit our website and follow us on social media for updates and tips.
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