BBB: Beware of annual ‘Secret Sister’ scam

JACKSON, Tenn. — An annual scam is making its way back to social media just in time for the holiday season.

The Better Business Bureau is warning social media users to be on the look out for the ‘Secret Sister’ scam.

“One version of the scam revolves around exchanging bottles of wine or bourbon. Another suggests you purchase a $10 gift online, maybe even a gift card. You might see references receiving happy meals or doing the exchange for the good of the sisterhood or something of that nature,” said Toddnetta Trice, communications specialist for the Better Business Bureau.

This exchange will encourage one user to give one item in exchange for a certain amount of gifts.

“So the scheme starts with a very convincing invitation, you can get it either through email or, like I said, through social media. A lot of time this people you’ve known on social media, only on social media and a lot of time it’s not someone that personable,” said Trice.

The problem comes in that it requires the participant to give out their personal information.

“Just because you know someone on social media does not mean you actually know them. So never give out your personal information like your address to a stranger online. Be weary of false claims,” said Trice.

Here’s what you can do so you won’t be caught in this scam.

“So how to avoid it? Ignore it. As soon as you might see that status or you might get that inbox or that email or it might trigger your interest, go ahead and ignore it. Don’t respond to it, act like you never received it go ahead and delete it. Also you can report it to the social media platform,” said Trice.

The Better Business Bureau is encouraging families to do secret Santa with those you know.

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