The spreading scams are called "Secret Sister Gift Exchange," and "Secret Wine Bottle Exchange." Both scams have been spreading drastically on Facebook, and some unfortunate Facebook users fall for it. It may sound like a good way of exchanging gifts however, in truth it is actually a fraud hiding in Santa's closet.
According to CBS News, both exchange gifts are illegal and it also gave information about Better Business Bureau stating that gift exchanges starts trending during this holiday season. BBB advises everyone to be cautious in participating in such gimmicks. Some more reports regarding the statement from U.S Postal Inspection Service's gambling and pyramid scheme laws, gift chains similar to this are actually illegal and participants can be penalized due to fraudulent act.
These scams have the same procedures in their operations, starting with a Facebook user posting in his/her status, and then tagging people from his/her friend list. They even ask at least a minimum of 6 participants to be part of the gift exchange, and then the friends of the scammer are instructed to buy at least one bottle of wine or other gift packs.
The gifts are sold for $15 or even more which the scammers tell you to even send it to another secret wine lover, and in return the participants are going to receive at least 6 to 36 wine bottles as told by the scammer. This sweet deal offered got people convinced to participate, and end up complaining in the end. You are not only going to waste your money but also the scammers will get a hold of your home address, and much more personal information.
So as stated above the offer is very convincing, and it has managed to fool a lot of people worldwide. It would be best if you keep away from unidentified exchange gifts offers or programs on social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, and many more. Watch the video below from a reporter on KCTV5 News.Subscribe for more updates on the spreading scams on Facebook!
