TikTok video scam targets users with fake donation request, BBB warns
FILE – A TikTok sign is displayed on top of their building in Culver City, Calif., on Dec. 3, 2024. (AP Photo/Richard Vogel, File)
(WPDE) — The Better Business Bureau of Eastern Carolinas is warning of a new scam targeting TikTok and social media users with fake donation requests.
They said users may come across ads or videos selling merchandise that claim to support a charity or a local cause. The videos often feature older adults, adorable animals, touching music and handmade products to target “animal lovers and kind-hearted donors.”
Furthermore, they said the videos may have a link to donate in the description, where it’s unclear if the money is going to a charity.
BBB officials described the kinds of videos saying “something along the lines of, ‘Please stay for 8 seconds to help my cat shelter from shutting down,’ or ‘Please don’t scroll for 12 seconds to help my failing animal shelter.'”
The videos may be AI-generated or contain stolen videos or photos, according to the BBB.
One TikTok user who filed a report with BBB Scam Tracker shared their experienced:
TikTok videos on an account called FlappyBirdUS of a little old man and his wife who “make cat toys to support their failing cat shelter”… when you order the toy to support them nothing ever gets sent to you they just take your money… all the videos are fake, AI generated nonsense …selling cat toys in this case, cow slippers in another version
Tips from BBB to avoid donation scams:
- Only buy from companies you know and trust
- Don’t give in to videos that are emotional
- Give locally
Go here for more information.
