BBB warns of scam involving TikTok, social media videos

JACKSON, Tenn. — The Better Business Bureau is alerting us to another scam — this one involves a popular social media platform.

This scam is mainly found on TikTok, however it can be found on other platforms as well. It is mainly trying to scam you into donating for a variety of reasons.

Toddnetta Trice with the Better Business Bureau of the Mid-South explains more on what these scammers are doing.

“These videos, and a lot of times they may be AI generated, or including stolen videos or images from other accounts,” Trice said, “so a lot of times people end up dishing out this money and nothing comes about. Especially when it comes to influencers who are selling these merchandises.”

It is always important to only do business or donate to organizations that you know and trust. This is a great way to ensure that you are not being scammed.

Trice has another good tip for us.

“Don’t give into those videos that tug at your heart,” Trice said. “So, of course with social media, a lot of us use it daily and we come across those videos. Those sad, sad videos, whether it is an animal, a child, or a person.”

If you feel inclined to donate or support an organization, Trice has some great advice to help you get your gift to the right hands.

“Contact your local state provider, animal shelters, or local places that help with people with homelessness , and other agencies directly and see what you can do to help support them. Because that money can definitely go a long way in your community,” said Trice.

As is the case for a majority of these scams, doing research is always a key priority. Make sure a company is legit, and look up any reviews if available.

You can also search the Better Business Bureau’s Scam Tracker to see if a business has already been reported. If you run into one of these scams, contact the BBB to assist in taking down the scammers.

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