Scammers target social media influencers with fake products

Some of the world’s biggest social media influencers are famous and make millions of dollars. It’s attractive to many people who think they can do the same but they may be getting scammed.

You enjoy your time on social media and also want to gain likes and followers, but scammers could be watching.

Securit Bryan Oglesby with the Better Business Bureau of West Florida explains it like this: “They’re going to social media, they’re enticing you to be a brand ambassador or be an influencer to their brand that they’re claiming they have.”

Celebrities or social media influencers you admire say they want you to show off their products.

First, you receive a direct message asking you to buy it at a reduced price, with some of the money going to a charity. But it’s overpriced or never arrives.

Oglesby warns it may be a scam, and it’s is often aimed at younger kids that may want to be models or dancers. “They’re playing on that emotional appeal. Who doesn’t want to help give back to a charity, and ‘all you have to do is purchase our product.”

He says it’s just another scam to get your money and your personal information. It can usually be avoided by doing your homework.

One more thing: Make sure to report it to law enforcement if someone tries to scam you.

RESOURCES:

• BBB Scam Alert: Fake charities trick would-be Instagram influencers
• BBB Scam Tracker
• File a complaint with the IC3