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  Greg Collier 8:00 am on July 6, 2026 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: puppy scam ( 38 ), Scams ( 1,690 ), TikTok   

  Puppy Scams Are Still Stealing Hearts and Wallets 

  

  By Greg Collier

  For many families, bringing home a new puppy is an exciting milestone.

  Unfortunately, scammers know that emotions often outweigh caution when someone falls in love with photos of an adorable dog online.

  One recent victim learned that lesson the hard way after what began as a $600 puppy purchase spiraled into more than $16,000 in payments. Despite paying fee after fee, the puppy never arrived.

  Sadly, this wasn’t a new scam.

  It’s one of the oldest internet scams around, and it continues to claim victims because fraudsters know exactly how to manipulate hopeful pet owners.

  The Puppy That Never Came Home

  The victim had waited several years after losing a beloved dog before deciding it was finally time to welcome another puppy into the family.

  While on TikTok, he found what appeared to be a breeder advertising a chocolate Labrador puppy for sale.

  The price seemed reasonable, and he paid a deposit.

  When meeting in person supposedly became impossible, the breeder offered to ship the puppy instead.

  That’s when everything changed.

  Soon there were additional charges.

  First came shipping fees.

  Then crate rental fees.

  Then paperwork fees.

  Every payment was followed by the same promise:

  “Once you pay this, your puppy is on the way.”

  The victim even received access to what appeared to be a shipment tracking app showing the puppy traveling toward him.

  But the puppy never arrived.

  After two weeks of excuses and new requests for money, he had lost more than $16,000.

  Investigators later discovered the breeder’s listed address appeared to be vacant, raising even more questions about whether the breeder ever existed at all.

  How Puppy Scams Work

  Puppy scams have been around for years because they follow a simple but effective formula.

  The scammer advertises a desirable breed at an attractive price.

  The buyer becomes emotionally invested.

  Then the unexpected fees begin.

  Common excuses include:

  • Shipping costs
  • Veterinary certificates
  • Insurance fees
  • Special travel crates
  • Vaccination costs
  • Customs charges
  • Quarantine fees
  • Transportation permits

  Every payment supposedly solves the last problem.

  Instead, it simply creates another one.

  The scam continues until the victim either runs out of money or realizes there was never a puppy to begin with.

  Why People Keep Falling for It

  Most people aren’t thinking like investigators.

  They’re thinking about bringing home a new family member.

  Scammers understand that emotional connection.

  Once someone has imagined a puppy sleeping in their home or playing with their children, they’re far more likely to overlook warning signs.

  In many cases, victims become more determined to keep paying because they’ve already invested so much money.

  Scammers exploit that commitment.

  Red Flags

  Be cautious if:

  • The breeder refuses to meet in person.
  • The puppy can only be shipped.
  • Communication only happens through messaging apps.
  • Payment is requested through Cash App, Zelle, Apple Pay, cryptocurrency, or overseas bank accounts.
  • New fees keep appearing after you’ve already paid.
  • The seller creates excuses for delays.
  • The breeder cannot provide live video of the puppy.
  • The listed address or phone number cannot be verified.

  One red flag alone doesn’t always mean fraud.

  Several together should make you stop immediately.

  How to Protect Yourself

  Before buying a puppy online:

  • Visit the breeder in person whenever possible.
  • Ask for a live video call with the puppy.
  • Research the breeder independently.
  • Verify the breeder’s address.
  • Search for reviews from multiple sources.
  • Ask for veterinary records.
  • Be suspicious of sellers who refuse in-person pickup.
  • Never continue sending money because of unexpected fees.

  Legitimate breeders generally disclose costs upfront.

  They do not keep inventing new charges after the sale.

  If You Think You’ve Been Scammed

  If you’ve already sent money:

  • Stop making additional payments immediately.
  • Contact your bank or payment provider.
  • Report the fraud to local law enforcement.
  • Notify your state attorney general’s office.
  • Save all emails, text messages, payment receipts, and screenshots.
  • Report fraudulent websites and social media accounts where the puppy was advertised.

  The sooner you act, the better your chances of helping investigators identify the scammers.

  Final Thoughts

  Puppy scams continue to thrive because they don’t just steal money.

  They exploit hope.

  Victims aren’t chasing an investment or a bargain.

  They’re trying to bring home a new companion.

  That’s exactly why scammers keep using this scheme.

  If someone you’ve never met is asking for payment after payment while promising that your puppy is “almost there,” it’s time to stop.

  Because in most puppy scams, there never was a puppy.

  There was only a scammer counting on your love of animals to empty your wallet.

   

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  Greg Collier 8:00 am on October 9, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: cryptocurrency ( 65 ), romance scam ( 83 ), Scams ( 1,690 ), Telegram, TikTok   

  The High Price of Fake Love 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Online romance scams continue to drain bank accounts and devastate lives, as shown by a case recently highlighted by law enforcement in the Kansas City, Missouri, area. A local resident is said to have lost approximately $120,000 over the span of seven months after forming what he believed to be a genuine relationship with someone he met through social media.

  The interaction reportedly began on TikTok and later shifted to Telegram, an encrypted messaging service, which investigators say makes it significantly more difficult to trace communications or identify the individual on the other end. Over time, the scammer allegedly fabricated a series of personal hardships, each accompanied by urgent requests for financial help. Vehicle issues, fuel costs, and eventually supposed property-related expenses were all cited as reasons for sending more money. The victim complied repeatedly, believing repayment was forthcoming once certain affairs were settled.

  The scheme only unraveled when a relative was informed of the situation and recognized the warning signs. By that point, the financial damage had already been done. Law enforcement has reiterated that individuals caught in these scams often isolate themselves from friends and family out of embarrassment or emotional dependence on the relationship. That isolation makes intervention difficult until it is too late.

  Experts warn that these schemes are becoming more convincing due to advances in artificial intelligence. Sophisticated tools now allow scammers to generate realistic profile photos, manufactured life details, and even voice or video messages that appear authentic. What once required coordination now takes minutes, making deception easier to scale and far more difficult to detect.

  It is also a misconception that only the naïve or technologically inexperienced fall for these scams. Investigators say the most common factor among victims is not a lack of knowledge but a lack of connection. Scammers thrive by offering consistent attention and emotional reinforcement, often filling a void that friends or family may not be aware exists. Anyone experiencing loneliness or isolation, regardless of age or background, can become vulnerable when a persuasive voice appears to offer support.

  Authorities are once again urging the public to refrain from sending money to anyone they have not met in person, no matter how familiar or trustworthy that relationship may feel. Digital manipulation has reached a point where validation is easy to fake, while financial transactions remain all too real. Once funds are transferred, especially through irreversible methods such as cryptocurrency, there is little hope of recovery.

  Cases like this serve as a reminder that open dialogue is critical. Discussing online relationships may feel intrusive or uncomfortable, but silence is what allows exploitation to continue. Awareness and communication remain the most effective safeguards against this growing threat.

   
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  Greg Collier 8:00 am on September 18, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: Cash App ( 44 ), CFPB, hoax ( 5 ), money glitch, TikTok, Zelle ( 74 )   

  TikTok’s Fake Payout Promise 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Social media users are being lured by a new wave of videos that promise free money through popular peer-to-peer payment apps such as Zelle and Cash App. The pitch is presented as a simple process of filling out a government form, but the claims have no basis in reality. What is being pushed is not a legitimate way to recover lost funds. It is a misleading scheme that has already convinced many people to waste their time and money in pursuit of a payout that does not exist.

  The idea preys on those who have been victims of online payment fraud and are searching for ways to be reimbursed. Some online personalities are claiming that a complaint to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau will automatically generate compensation, even for those who were never victims in the first place. This false promise has been paired with the sale of templates and financial guides that add yet another layer of exploitation.

  Consumer advocates have made clear that the tactic has no legitimacy. Zelle has stated that consumers were misled into filing complaints based on a fabricated settlement, while Cash App has said it has improved how it identifies and responds to customer issues. Reports also note that with reduced oversight of federal consumer protection agencies, opportunists are taking advantage of the situation to target those who are already financially strained.

  There is also a legal risk that has gone largely unspoken in the videos encouraging people to try this method. Filing a false complaint with a government agency can rise to the level of fraud. While many viewers may see it as a harmless trick, in reality submitting knowingly inaccurate claims could have criminal consequences.

  The situation echoes a familiar pattern on TikTok and other platforms where so-called “money glitches” are promoted as a quick and easy path to financial gain. Not long ago, similar videos circulated claiming that hidden glitches in Cash App or other services could be exploited to receive free transfers. Those claims, too, were proven false and left behind a trail of disappointed users. The latest version of this scam follows the same formula. It dangles the promise of effortless money before viewers who are encouraged to act quickly before the supposed opportunity disappears.

  Consumer protection experts urge anyone who has been defrauded through a payment app to pursue legitimate channels of recourse. Filing a proper complaint with full documentation can help build a case, but there is no shortcut to a payout and certainly no promise of free money for those who were never affected. In the end, the only people profiting from these social media claims are those selling false hope.

   
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  Greg Collier 8:00 am on August 7, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: counterfeit goods ( 14 ), Labubu, must have toys ( 3 ), online shopping ( 41 ), TikTok   

  Labubu Toy Scam Hits Online Shoppers 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Labubu toys, produced by the collectible toy brand Pop Mart, have quickly become one of the most sought-after items among children and collectors alike. These stylized, elf-like figures are part of a blind-box toy series and often feature whimsical, sometimes mischievous expressions. Originally launched as part of the “The Monsters” collection, Labubu figures typically retail for about $15 to $20 apiece, though rare editions and limited releases can fetch significantly higher prices in resale markets.

  Like Beanie Babies in the 1990s or Hatchimals in the 2010s, Labubus have developed a devoted following that fuels both demand and scarcity. As with any highly coveted toy, this has made them a ripe target for counterfeiters and scammers. The Better Business Bureau is now warning consumers to be especially cautious when purchasing Labubu toys online, particularly from unfamiliar websites or third-party sellers advertising through social media platforms.

  Recent reports show that dozens of buyers have been deceived by online retailers promising authentic Labubu toys, only to receive cheap knockoffs or, in some cases, nothing at all. Some consumers were led to these fraudulent sellers through ads on popular apps, such as TikTok. Once a purchase was made, the retailer’s website would often disappear, leaving no recourse for the buyer.

  Because these toys are part of a global collectible trend, their physical features are often closely scrutinized by fans and collectors. Authentic Labubu figures should come in branded packaging with specific identifiers such as a QR code and a holographic sticker. The figures themselves typically have a pale peach complexion and are designed with nine sharp, pointed teeth. Anything that deviates from these markers could indicate a counterfeit product.

  Counterfeit toys also come with risks beyond the disappointment of receiving a fake. These knockoffs are not subject to the same safety and quality regulations as legitimate products. As a result, they may be made with unsafe materials such as lead-based paint or contain small, breakable parts that pose choking hazards. While collectors may recognize the difference immediately, unsuspecting parents could be putting their children at risk without knowing it.

  To avoid falling victim to these scams, experts advise consumers to make purchases through reputable and well-known retailers. Suspiciously low prices, poor-quality website design, or vague contact information should be considered red flags. While social media advertising can sometimes lead to legitimate deals, it has also become a common method for scam operations to gain traction quickly and then disappear.

  The popularity of Labubu toys is expected to continue rising, especially as limited editions and seasonal releases drive further demand. For those looking to join the trend or buy for a child or collector, taking extra care during the purchasing process can help prevent costly disappointments. The Better Business Bureau continues to provide updated consumer alerts and shopping advice on its official website.

   
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  Greg Collier 8:00 am on June 9, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: AI ( 36 ), charity ( 18 ), charity scam ( 46 ), Scams ( 1,690 ), TikTok   

  TikTok Cat Shelter Scam Exposed 

  

  By Greg Collier

  A deceptive new charity scam has emerged on TikTok, once again proving how scammers adapt old tactics to modern platforms. The Better Business Bureau is warning users to be cautious, especially when appeals appear heartwarming and urgent.

  A recent report to the BBB involved a TikTok account using stolen or AI-generated videos of an elderly couple selling novelty items like cat toys or slippers. These products were marketed as part of a fundraiser to help save a struggling cat shelter. A link in the video directed viewers to a website offering the items for purchase. Unfortunately, buyers reported that nothing ever arrived. More troubling, their credit card and personal information were likely compromised.

  This kind of scheme relies heavily on emotional triggers. The scammers design content to make the viewer feel sympathy or guilt. By showing cute animals, pairing videos with sentimental music, and begging viewers not to scroll past, they hope to elicit a fast emotional reaction that leads to an impulsive purchase.

  The BBB recommends skepticism toward online charities that do not clearly explain how donations are used. They also advise checking organizations through resources like Give.org and Charity Navigator to verify legitimacy.

  Those who suspect they’ve been scammed should contact their credit card provider to request a chargeback and take extra precautions by enabling multifactor authentication on their digital accounts. This situation is another reminder that emotional manipulation is a powerful tool in the hands of bad actors, and that caution is always necessary before clicking on links or making online purchases.

   
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  Greg Collier 8:00 am on May 16, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: healthcare ( 48 ), online pharmacies ( 3 ), Ozempic ( 4 ), prescription drugs ( 5 ), Scams ( 1,690 ), TikTok   

  TikTok is no place to buy Ozempic 

  

  By Greg Collier

  In recent years, the weight loss industry has witnessed a dramatic surge in the popularity of prescription medications like Ozempic. Originally developed to manage diabetes, these drugs have gained a reputation for their significant weight loss benefits, leading to skyrocketing demand and consequent shortages. Unfortunately, this booming market has also attracted the attention of scammers, particularly on social media platforms like TikTok, where unscrupulous operators are exploiting vulnerable consumers by offering these drugs at lower prices and without the necessary prescriptions.

  Investigations by online safety experts were conducted from February through April, have unveiled a troubling trend. Researchers scrutinized dozens of TikTok profiles that purported to sell weight loss drugs such as Ozempic. The investigation revealed a shocking reality. Nearly every transaction was a scam. These scams often employed misleading testimonials and before-and-after photos to lure unsuspecting buyers. However, all these claims were fabricated, designed to prey on individuals desperate to lose weight.

  Researchers said it was not difficult to find several dozen operators offering Ozempic. In every case that they found, they were scams. Despite assurances of authenticity and acceptance of payments through services like Zelle, PayPal, and Venmo, no products were ever delivered to the buyers.

  It was determined that there are three main risks associated with this scam. Firstly, consumers are defrauded of their money. Secondly, there is a danger of receiving counterfeit drugs, which can be harmful. Lastly, even if the genuine drug is obtained, using it without a doctor’s supervision can be dangerous.

  The allure of rapid weight loss can drive individuals to take risks, but the rise of scams on social media highlights the need for caution. Consumers must remain vigilant, verify the legitimacy of sellers, and consult healthcare professionals before using prescription medications.

  For years, online pharmacies have promised convenience and affordability, enticing countless consumers with the allure of easy access to medications. However, this seemingly modern solution harbors a longstanding, insidious threat. Many of these online pharmacies operate as dangerous scams, preying on unsuspecting individuals by selling counterfeit, expired, or mislabeled drugs. The consequences are dire, ranging from ineffective treatment to severe health complications. As the digital marketplace for pharmaceuticals continues to expand, it’s imperative to recognize the enduring dangers these scams pose and take steps to protect ourselves and our loved ones from their harmful impact.

   
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  Greg Collier 9:00 am on February 29, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: advance fee scam ( 57 ), government scams ( 11 ), grants ( 16 ), identity theft ( 135 ), Scams ( 1,690 ), TikTok   

  When old scams become new: TikTok scam promises free money 

  

  By Greg Collier

  A prevalent scam frequently encountered on Facebook is the government grant scam. This usually occurs when scammers gain unauthorized access to someone’s Facebook account. They then exploit this access to send messages to the victim’s friends, claiming they’ve received a significant government grant and anyone can apply. These messages include a link for recipients to purportedly apply for the grant.

  In this scam, the trick lies in scammers posing as government representatives who then request payment from victims under false pretenses, often citing processing fees or taxes. This deceptive practice is commonly referred to as the advance fee scam, where individuals are asked to pay money upfront in order to receive promised funds.

  When a social network emerges with a predominantly young audience, scammers adapt their tactics to better appeal to this demographic. They might tweak the scam’s messaging, incorporating language and content that resonates with younger users.

  According to the Better Business Bureau, scammers on TikTok are luring users with the promise of a $6,400 government grant, targeting individuals earning less than $50,000 annually. Given the economic challenges many young people face today, this offer may seem particularly appealing to a significant portion of the younger population.

  In the TikTok scam, perpetrators use videos featuring individuals who purport to have successfully applied for and received the grant. However, these individuals are often victims of the scam themselves. As part of the deception, scammers may condition the release of the promised payment on the victim creating their own video endorsing the legitimacy of the grant program.

  The BBB also reports the scam on TikTok might not necessarily be seeking payment from victims, but rather aiming to harvest their personal data.

  If a grant or financial assistance program requires payment upfront, question its legitimacy. Legitimate government grants typically do not require payment in advance. Avoid providing personal or financial information to unknown individuals or entities online, especially in response to unsolicited messages or requests. Take the time to research any offers or opportunities thoroughly before taking action. Look for reviews, feedback, or reports from trusted sources to validate the legitimacy of the offer. Lastly, Be skeptical of offers that seem too good to be true, especially if they promise large sums of money for minimal effort or qualifications.

   
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  Greg Collier 9:00 am on February 8, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: online shopping ( 41 ), Scams ( 1,690 ), TikTok, TikTok Shop   

  BBB warns against buying from TikTok Shop 

  

  By Greg Collier

  TikTok Shop is a feature within the TikTok app that allows users to browse and purchase products directly from TikTok creators’ videos. It enables creators to tag products in their videos, making it easier for viewers to discover and buy items they see in the content. This feature helps creators monetize their content and provides users with a seamless shopping experience without leaving the app.

  Scammers may exploit TikTok Shop in various ways to deceive users and conduct fraudulent activities. They might create fake listings for products that don’t exist or are of poor quality. They may also use enticing images and descriptions to lure users into making purchases. Some scammers may sell counterfeit versions of popular products through TikTok Shop, tricking users into buying items that are not authentic.

  Scammers might even pose as legitimate sellers on TikTok Shop and convince users to make payments outside the platform, bypassing TikTok’s security measures. Once the payment is made, the scammer disappears without delivering the product.

  Recently, the Better Business Bureau issued a cautionary statement regarding purchases made through TikTok Shop. A common grievance reported to the BBB involves consumers paying for products but not receiving them. Additionally, consumers express unease over the lack of clarity regarding the entities they’ve entrusted with their payment details.

  The BBB advises TikTok users to conduct thorough research on vendors before making purchases through TikTok Shop. It’s crucial to understand the vendor’s return policy, if available, and to verify their authenticity by checking for verification badges. Additionally, potential buyers should search for reviews and complaints about the vendor online. When making a purchase through TikTok Shop, using a credit card is recommended for enhanced consumer protection compared to other payment methods.

  While TikTok Shop offers a convenient platform for discovering and purchasing products, users should always be on the lookout for potential scams. By staying informed and cautious, TikTok users can minimize the risks associated with scams on the platform.

   
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  Greg Collier 8:00 am on October 11, 2023 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: free jewelry, online shopping ( 41 ), Scams ( 1,690 ), social media ( 90 ), TikTok   

  Beware this TikTok shopping scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  There is an old saying that goes, “Don’t believe anything you hear and only half of what you see”. That saying could not apply more to social media. In a landscape filled with bots, con artists, and shady advertisements, it’s no wonder scammers have taken to the hottest social media platform to spread their newest scam.

  The Better Business Bureau has issued a warning about an online shopping scam taking place on TikTok. According to the BBB, scammers are posting videos to TikTok claiming they’re disgruntled employees of a high-end jewelry store. The scammers say they’re quitting from the store and to get back at their employers, they’re going to give viewers a secret code to get free merchandise.

  The trick here is that viewers are directed to a fake website that looks like a retailer’s website. While the ‘secret code’ gives the viewer 100% discounts for the merchandise, shipping fees will rack up. If someone were to complete their order, the scammers would have the victim’s financial information. If the victim receives any product at all, it’s usually a cheap knock-off. The BBB is also warning this scam could be duplicated using any kind of retailer.

  We say this a lot, but it really tends to be true. If an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Any outrageous offers like this should be thoroughly researched before committing to making a payment. IN actuality, you should really only shop with retailers who have already gained your trust. Lastly, if at all possible, always shop online with a credit card. If you get ripped off while using a credit card, you’re more than likely to get your money back than you would with a debit card, as credit cards provide more protection to consumers.

  Amazon job scams plague social media is discussing. Toggle Comments

   
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  Greg Collier 9:00 am on February 15, 2023 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: charity ( 18 ), charity scam ( 46 ), earthquake ( 3 ), natural disasters ( 28 ), Scams ( 1,690 ), Syria, TikTok, Turkey, Twitter ( 13 )   

  When Disaster Strikes: Beware of Earthquake Charity Scams 

  

  By Greg Collier

  As you may be aware of, devastating earthquakes struck the countries of Turkey and Syria. As with any natural disaster that garners headlines, scammers are already trying to take advantage of the world’s generosity. While the traditional charity scams are being used, new scams have appeared in the wake of the catastrophes.

  Charity scammers often resort to cold-calling or sending unsolicited messages to target unsuspecting individuals. They may adopt deceptive names that sound legitimate or even masquerade as reputable organizations such as the Red Cross. It is essential to exercise caution and refrain from responding to any unsolicited communication, as this has emerged as the primary means of operation for such fraudulent entities.

  It is advisable to steer clear of making donations to charities with ambiguous names, such as “Disaster Relief Fund”. Such names do not clearly indicate the purpose of the organization, and it may not be apparent how your donation will be utilized.

  The situation has further worsened with the emergence of social media scammers on TikTok, where users can tip content creators. Fraudulent individuals are taking advantage of this platform by posting generic videos of disaster aftermaths, and falsely claiming that the tips will go towards relief efforts.

  Similarly, Twitter has not remained immune to these fraudulent activities. Scammers are posting AI-generated images of rescue workers holding children who appear to have been affected by the disaster, and soliciting donations to a Bitcoin wallet. It is worth noting that the pictures may appear real as they are generated using AI art programs, as in the example image above.

  To ensure that your charitable contribution makes a genuine impact, there are several steps you can take to verify the legitimacy of the charity you intend to donate to. Websites like Charity Navigator and Give.org provide a platform to verify the authenticity of various charitable organizations. Additionally, you can check if the charity is registered with the IRS, as this serves as a reliable indicator of its authenticity.

  In case of unsolicited contact, it is best to refrain from divulging any personal or financial information to unknown individuals. Exercise caution when considering crowdfunding campaigns initiated by anonymous individuals, as these may also be fraudulent schemes. By remaining vigilant and verifying the legitimacy of the charity, you can ensure that your donation goes towards the cause you intend to support.