Don't Fall for These Costco^® Scams!

Who doesn't love a good deal at Costco^®? Those bulk savings can make anyone feel like a savvy shopper. But while you're grabbing a giant jar of pickles or a year's supply of paper towels, scammers lurk in the shadows, waiting to pounce on unsuspecting customers. To be clear, these crafty con artists are not actually affiliated with — they're skilled imposters. But armed with the right knowledge, you can outsmart these scammers and keep your hard-earned cash safe. Let's dive into the most common Costco scams — and more importantly, how to dodge them.

1. The 'Exclusive Giveaway' Bait

A text or email pops up, claiming you've won an exclusive giveaway. You just need to click a link to claim your prize. Sounds fantastic, right? Wrong. It's a trap. Clicking that link can lead to malware or a phishing site eager to snatch up your passwords and credit card numbers.

How to Avoid It: Don't take the bait. Costco won't send you a link to claim a prize. Always remember: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

2. Sneaky Survey Texts

Got a text offering a reward for answering a few quick questions? You're dealing with "smishing" — scammers fishing for your personal information through text messages. They promise a prize, but once you provide your details, they drain your account faster than you can say "giant jar of peanut butter."

How to Avoid It: Ignore the link and delete the text. Costco doesn't lure you into surveys with prize offers. Stay vigilant and protect your information.

3. Fake Satisfaction Survey Emails

These emails look like they're straight from Costco, asking about your shopping experience and dangling a reward. They seem legit, but they're a scammer's way of getting you to click on a link and hand over personal information.

How to Avoid It: Scrutinize the sender's email address and any links. Official Costco emails come from "Costco@online.costco.com." If you have doubts, avoid clicking and delete the email.

4. Bogus Websites

You might find yourself on a website that looks like it's the official Costco website — but you didn't type in the address. Scammers create fake websites to trick you into making purchases or giving up your information. It's their digital trap.

How to Avoid It: Always check the URL. Costco's official site is "https://www.costco.com." Look for "https" and a padlock symbol to ensure a secure connection.

5. The Free TV Temptation

Who doesn't want a free TV? Scammers know this and use it to their advantage. They send messages claiming you've won a free television just for being a Costco customer. It's a classic too-good-to-be-true con.

How to Avoid It: Step back and think. Would Costco really give away free TVs out of the blue? If you're unsure, head to your local store and ask a representative.

6. Loyalty Rewards Texts

A text from Costco promising loyalty rewards or threatening to cancel your membership if you don't click the link? It's a scam, plain and simple. Costco won't use scare tactics or bribe you with fake rewards.

How to Avoid It: Ignore these texts. Costco doesn't send loyalty rewards via text or email. If you receive such a message, delete it immediately.

7. The Overcharge Reimbursement Trap

This scam claims Costco owes you money because of an overcharge, and you need to click a link to get your refund. It sounds convincing, especially if you shop there regularly, but it's a scam.

How to Avoid It: No one at Costco is sitting around analyzing receipts for overcharges. Don't click the link or provide personal information.

8. Survey With Exclusive Offer

Costco survey scams come in many flavors, offering everything from free iPhones to vacation packages. They lure you in with a survey and the promise of a prize, making you feel like you've earned it.

How to Avoid It: Remember, Costco doesn't exchange prizes for personal details. If a survey dangles a big prize for a few answers, it's a scam.

9. 'Redeem Your Gift Card' Trick

Who doesn't love a gift card? Scammers send emails or texts asking you to redeem a Costco gift card. The catch? It's not from Costco at all.

How to Avoid It: Never click on links or open attachments from unsolicited messages. Legitimate gift card offers won't come out of the blue.

10. The USPS Scam

A message claims the USPS couldn't deliver your Costco package, and you need to click a link to arrange redelivery. This is another phishing attempt designed to trick you into giving away your information.

How to Avoid It: If you're waiting for a package from Costco, check your order status through a verified link or call the store directly. Don't click on suspicious links.

How to Stay One Step Ahead

• Question Everything: An offer that looks unbelievably good usually isn't real.
• Verify Offers: Always check directly with Costco through their official website or customer service.
• Guard Your Info: Don't give out personal or financial information in response to unsolicited messages.
• Keep an Eye on Your Accounts: Regularly monitor your statements for any suspicious activity.

Remember, Costco won't ask for your personal information via email, text or phone. When in doubt, reach out to them directly using official contact details. Stay sharp, and you'll keep these scams at bay.

References: These Are the Costco Scams You Need to Know About ASAP | Exposing the top scams targeting Costco shoppers