The U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), has sent out a warning for Facebook users to not fall for an online gift-giving scheme. This started up in the last few years, and nobody got the gifts they were promised.The Facebook post that has been recirculating, asks users to send a gift worth $10 or more to a “secret sister” with a promise of 36 presents in return.
“Anyone want to join in on this fun?. You have to buy one gift valued of at least $10 and send it to your secret sis. (Hello, Amazon!) you will then receive 6-36 gifts in return.”
The USPIS first warned about the pyramid scheme in 2015 when it spread like wildfire on Facebook. The law enforcement arm of the US Postal Service said most people won’t receive anything for their contributions and will just be out of money and luck. Others have reported that victims of this hoax were accidentally providing their personal information and email addresses to identify thieves.
Here are a few other schemes currently detailed by the USPIS:
Beware of USPS Impostor Phone Calls
Some postal customers are receiving fraudulent phone calls that a package is ready to be delivered. Don’t provide personal information. Read more about this scam.Beware of Bogus Emails
Some postal customers are receiving bogus emails about a package delivery or online postage charges. Don’t click on the link, open the attachment, or print a label!
Read more about this scam.Don’t Waste Your Money on Charity Fraud
Disasters can bring out the best in people, but the reverse may also be true: Scammers try to take advantage of disasters by stealing donations intended to help victims. Don’t let your money go to charity fraud.
Susan Saunders 11/16/18
