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Scammers recently tried to take advantage of Trader Joe’s customers, spreading a fake $250 coupon on Facebook for the grocery store. The grocery chain recently responded, explaining that these online coupons were fake.
In a press statement, Trader Joe’s explained, “It has been brought to our attention that organizations may be appropriating the Trader Joe’s name in association with Coupon, Discount or Gift Card offerings online. Trader Joe’s has NO association with these organizations. We do not offer any Trader Joe’s coupons, discounts or gift cards online.”
The statement continued, "The only means we use to communicate with our customers online is via our website (www.traderjoes.com) and our eNewsletter, which you will only receive if you have elected to hear from us via our 'Newsletter Sign-up.'"
According to the Associated Press, the scam prompted Facebook users: "Hurry up! Collect your FREE voucher here."
The article continues, "After you click on the link, you are taken to a website where you are asked to fill out a survey about Trader Joe’s. The website says you will receive your voucher for the fake coupon within two hours."
This scam can lead to some serious problems.
The Associated Press continues, "By posting fake coupons online, scammers can gather traffic to a website, upload malware to your device, steal your personal information or even money, according to Katherine R. Hutt, national spokesperson for the International Association of Better Business Bureaus, Inc."
With that in mind, to protect your personal information, it's important to be wary of any deals online that seem too generous.
