Stay Alert: Social Media Scams Targeting Louisiana Consumers

Social media can be a wonderful place for Louisianans to find great deals, but according to officials, users must also be very cautious to avoid being ripped off.

The Better Business Bureau of Acadiana is trying to inform our community about people scamming others out of money by placing fake ads for items on social media.

You could be looking at some terrific deal on a used car or an RV. Scammers are looking to get big money from you with big-ticket items that are supposedly discounted, but they don't exist.

What Do You Need to Know?

BBB President and CEO Chirs Babin advised that people are very careful when using social platforms to buy items. Deals can be very enticing when the price is super low but don't fall for their trap.

The BBB website's Scam Tracker feature has seen an uptick in the number of people in our area reporting being scammed out of money using Facebook Marketplace.

You can find terrific local deals on items you want, but you do have to be careful with a deal "that looks/sounds too good to be true." Many wonderful people from all over Louisiana are honest and want to sell their items. Just be very aware other people are looking to steal from you. These types of scams are everywhere. Proceed with caution.

What Are Some Red Flags You Should Look For?

What if you see a great deal or want an item? Babin says to look for the following that might indicate you're going to get played:

• The seller tries telling you they are in the military and have to sell fast; scrutinize them carefully
• The seller wants you to think they are in another country, ask why they would be on the local Facebook Marketplace
• The seller tries to get you to pay them in gift cards
• The seller wants to pay you via Zelle, Venmo, or PayPal

Babin says if any of these things pop up you should really consider if this person is trying to take your money. Many people use money apps, but it's advised that you find a safe place to make an exchange, that you take someone with you, and that you don't agree to turn over your money until you have the item in your hands.

Here Are Some Places Online That Aren't Real

Babin says unscrupulous people just trying to get your money will use tactics like those above. After they've got your money, they will block your profile and disappear from social media.

There are legitimate items for sale, but watch out for ads on Craigslist and anyone who doesn't want to meet in a safe place.

He says some of these thieves will even pretend to be the shipping agent for your item, and they will ask you for more money. These people try to sell things that don't exist, like vehicles, pets, and so-called free trials.

Many police stations throughout Acadiana and across Louisiana have an area designated for just these types of transactions.

If you do buy something and you lose money, Babin says you should contact law enforcement. After that, you can record what happened in the Scam Tracker section of their website.

Ultimately, just put safety first and never give out any personal information. There is nothing wrong with asking plenty of questions to ensure you aren't being scammed.