Products at rock-bottom prices, testimonials from satisfied customers, and screenshots of supposedly delivered packages. Behind these enticing offers circulating on Facebook and WhatsApp lies a well-oiled scam. The Central Brigade for Combating Cybercrime (BCLCC) is warning internet users about these fake suppliers who present themselves as wholesalers of products imported from Turkey or China.
Scammers lure their victims through fake Facebook pages or groups called "Turkey-China Suppliers". They offer goods at prices presented as factory prices, with the promise of fast delivery.
Once in WhatsApp groups, users are exposed daily to purported promotions. To make their offers seem credible, cybercriminals stage fake satisfied customers, post fake proof of package delivery, and share screenshots of alleged money transfers.
The scenario is then well-established. After selecting their merchandise, the victim is asked to pay for their entire order via Mobile Money. The scammers then promise fast delivery and even claim to have representatives on site.
But a few days later, another payment is demanded. This time, it's for supposed customs clearance fees, which can amount to, or even equal, the price of the goods. At this point, the supplier usually becomes unreachable, and the victim realizes they've been scammed.
To avoid falling into this trap, the BCLCC calls on citizens to be wary of exceptionally cheap offers, not to send money to unknown suppliers without guarantees, and to favour recognized and secure sales platforms.
On social media, fake reviews and screenshots can easily lend an air of legitimacy to a scam. A good deal should never make you let your guard down. The BCLCC encourages internet users to report any suspicious behavior via the BCLCC Alert platform.
Yolande Bazié
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