Costco has easily become the most popular warehouse club retailer, with over 136.8 million members worldwide. They offer various products, including groceries, appliances, electronics, furniture, clothing, jewelry, tires, and much more. Their bulk quantities and discounted prices on exclusive Kirkland Signature brand products make it a consumer favorite. But with its popularity comes scammers. There are many types of Costco scams out there. Here are 10 Costco scams to look out for.
Fake Costco Websites
Scammers are crafty and can build websites that look legitimate. One of the most common Costco scams is fake websites. These websites have the same logo and a similar URL. These websites take advantage of people who misspell the website, who tend to be elderly shoppers. When you’re shopping Costco online, double or triple-check that you are on the authentic website. Check your spelling.
Fraudulent Costco Giveaways
Scammers will sometimes send victims a message about Costco giveaways. Costco doesn’t ordinarily do giveaways, so this should be your first red flag. One recurring scam is aimed at “exclusive members.” It says you have a chance to win one of many prizes, including video games, $100 gift cards, AirPods, or smartphones. The scam will also say that you have a limited time to collect your prize—this should be another red flag.
Cart Notification
This common Costco scam notifies victims that items are sitting in their online shopping cart. It claims the item is still available and instructs you to “click here” to complete the order. Often, a picture of the item is displayed. Don’t fall for this scam. Log in to your Costco account and check your shopping cart yourself. You likely won’t see the item from the message in your cart: scam.
Survey Text
The survey text is another common Costco scam. Victims will receive a message about an exclusive offer to complete a survey. It claims you could win up to $120, but you need to be the first of 10 users who received an invitation to respond, and you have to respond within a specific time limit. Anytime a message puts pressure on you to act quickly, it’s likely a scam.
Facebook Posts
There are plenty of different scams floating around Facebook, including one for Costco. A post claims that it is the CEO’s “35th birthday,” and whoever shares and comments will receive a “Christmas food box” with up to $250 groceries and a $35 voucher. Check the Costco website or call customer service to confirm any special promotions. Don’t fall for this phony post.
Overcharge Reimbursement Text
This deceptive message tells victims they are entitled to reimbursement. The text states that they are trying to get ahold of you and provides a fake confirmation number. They want you to claim your overcharge reimbursement by clicking on a fake link. The message is very vague and doesn’t provide many details, which should pose immediate red flags. Confirm with customer service on the authenticity of the claim if you are uncertain.
Fake Costco Interview
Navigating the job market can be tricky, which is why many get sucked into this scam. Victims receive a confirmation message for a job interview. For someone seeking a job, this can seem like a godsend. However, there is no job. Costco does have job openings across the country, but you’d be wise to apply directly on their website. Don’t get your hopes up with this insincere scam.
Executive Member Rewards
Costco is a membership-based retailer, which means you have to pay a monthly fee to get access to shop their warehouse. Although members do receive rewards for reaching certain milestones, one scam claims you’ll receive a 2% cash reward on bought items. Don’t believe the hype. Costco does give you rewards, but it’s in the form of a check that can only be used to purchase Costco products. Costco does not give out cash rewards.
Bogus Delivery Notification
There are some Amazon scams out there that use the same concept. A victim will receive a notification that their package has arrived. Be wary, especially if you haven’t ordered anything. The message will ask you to click on a link to collect your package, but there is no package because you didn’t make a purchase. This is just another scam to steal your information and get your money.
Free Samsung TV
Some victims have claimed they’ve received emails about winning a free TV. Excited to upgrade to a smart TV, they are often disappointed when they find out the message is a hoax. The notification looks legitimate, with the Costco logo and everything. Unfortunately, these messages are a scam, and you will not be getting a free TV. I know, it’s sad. Time to start saving!
