With more people stuck at home during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Better Business Bureau is reporting an uptick in free trial online scams — including some involving free beauty supplies, health products and even Netflix services.
According to the organization, fraudsters use fake celebrity endorsements ads on social media and the internet to try and purchase cosmetics or health products on websites that charge a small handling fee.
“The ads usually promote a ‘free’ trial of beauty or health products like skin creams or weight loss pills,” the BBB said in a press release. “However, the true cost of these trials — ongoing monthly subscription plans — is buried in small print and behind links, if disclosed at all.”
Free trial offers are not illegal, the BBB adds, however with the COVID-19 pandemic many scammers are now using the public’s desire for new video streaming services to target victims. Scam Tracker has received reports of fake ads using social media to offer free Netflix services.
“To receive a fake pass, those clicking on a link may be directed to provide personal information and send the offer to friends,” the BBB said. “Scammers are likely phishing for personal and banking information or trying to distribute malware.”
The BBB recommends people:
• examine online free trial offers carefully;
• resist being swayed by the phony use of a well-known name or celebrity;
• report free trial offer scams to BBB Scam Tracker;
• and report loses to credit card companies.
To report a scam or learn more about the BBB, go to www.bbb.org/scamtracker.
