Beware, TikTok users! Alongside dubious content like shoplifting tips and influencers peddling questionable products, the arrival of TikTok Shop in the U.S. has brought about a surge in product scams. These scams include online shopping, delivery, and gift card scams, and although not entirely new, they're proving highly effective, especially among TikTok's youthful user base.
Darius Kingsley, head of Consumer Business Practices at Chase Bank, offers valuable advice for those new to scam risks on TikTok:
1. **Watch out for counterfeit merchandise:** With the proliferation of social media shops and online marketplaces, exercise caution when interacting with unknown sellers online. Scammers may deceive you into purchasing non-existent items like concert tickets, online auction cars, or apartment furniture. Be cautious when asked to pay via Zelle, wire transfers, or gift cards, as recovering your money becomes nearly impossible once you send it.
2. **Stay on the platform:** If you're selling items on TikTok, avoid moving the transaction off the platform. Scammers often attempt to manipulate sellers by offering heartfelt stories or requesting direct communication, often leading to fraudulent links for money transfers or identity theft.
3. **Verify sellers and products:** Be skeptical of deals that seem too good to be true and always shop from reputable online stores. Research the seller's website, social media presence, and product authenticity to ensure they are genuine. Scammers sometimes create convincing fake seller webpages to deceive unsuspecting buyers.
4. **Exercise caution with clicks:** Scammers employ various tactics to obtain personal information, such as online quizzes or gift card giveaways on social media. These may innocuously request your birthdate, mailing address, or email. Kingsley advises that seemingly harmless information can be exploited for financial gain by scammers.
Remember, being informed is your best defense against scams on TikTok.
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