81% of consumers suffer from online fraud, Costco in the United States issued a warning

Recently, the Big Business Bureau (BBB) ​​in the United States stated that since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, online fraud related to online purchases has increased significantly. Survey data shows that in 2020, 81% of consumers lost a lot of money due to online purchase fraud.

The most representative example is that Costco recently released 13 screenshots of "famous fraudulent emails, texts and posts", saying that they are currently spreading on the Internet, warning customers to be wary of a dozen online scams against its shoppers.

Most of these scams offer free gifts, such as products, gift cards and other exclusive offers worth $50, to attract consumers. In addition, many of them also require customers to complete a short survey to redeem such prizes.

One scam claims that retailer Costco has a coronavirus stimulus package that offers $130 in free gifts to each loyalty member, while another scam claims that if customers take a quick survey, they are eligible for a free Samsung 4K HDTV.

Costco said on its website that the offers were not from Costco Wholesale. Members are reminded not to visit any web links associated with the scams or provide any personal information to the senders . The Federal Trade Commission also encourages consumers who may have seen or fallen for scams to report them.

Some consumers expressed their views on this situation

Costco just happened to be on this issue as I have not received any notification yet, thanks for informing them of such a scam .

It amazes me how people fall for these scams. If it sounds too good to be true (especially in an email), it definitely is.

It is important for us to understand the free rewards you get from taking online surveys and posting your personal information there. Remember; “Nothing is Free”!

In fact, sellers should pay more attention to this kind of problem. If consumers suffer financial losses due to such information, their loyalty will be reduced, and sellers will lose not only the brand, but more importantly, a large number of consumers.

Online fraud

USA

Costco