BBB warns of fake gas and grocery voucher scam
FOX23 News at 9 p.m
ST. LOUIS (KBSI) — The Better Business Bureau is warning consumers to be cautious of scammers offering free gas and grocery vouchers through the mail.
According to the BBB, scammers are sending postcards claiming recipients qualify for hundreds of dollars in free gas or grocery vouchers, rebates or shopping rewards. Victims are instructed to call a phone number or visit a website to claim the offer, often by paying a processing fee.
The BBB said consumers who respond may face unauthorized charges, be enrolled in recurring subscription services without their knowledge, receive low-value coupons instead of the promised reward or have difficulty obtaining refunds.
In one recent case, an O’Fallon, Missouri, resident reported receiving a postcard claiming more than $300 in gas and grocery vouchers were being held in her name. The BBB said she did not respond and did not lose any money.
“Scammers know families are looking for ways to save money right now,” BBB St. Louis President and CEO Michelle L. Corey said. “Remember that if someone contacts you out of the blue to offer you something for free, they might have ulterior motives — especially if they are trying to pressure you to act immediately.”
The BBB recommends consumers avoid paying upfront fees to claim prizes, research companies independently, avoid sharing payment or personal information under pressure and monitor bank and credit card statements for unauthorized charges.
Anyone who receives a suspicious offer is encouraged to report it to BBB Scam Tracker, the Federal Trade Commission and their state’s consumer protection office.
