Dangerous Costco Survey Scam Hits Illinois Shoppers

Have you received an email from Costco recently saying you could win a free YETI wagon “just for answering a quick survey"? Well, you are definitely not alone, and that is not a good thing.

Getty Images

New Costco Email Scam

Over the last week or so, I've noticed several Rockford area residents sharing warnings on social media about a new Costco scam circulating in the area.

This scam starts with an email claiming Costco is rewarding loyal shoppers with a free YETI wagon in exchange for answering a few questions about a recent shopping experience. Sounds harmless, right? That’s exactly what scammers are counting on.

Now, if you're someone like me who enjoys the chance to win cool stuff, the thought of winning a YETI wagon sounds pretty cool. But, as the old saying goes: If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is... and sadly, this is absolutely one of those cases.

Next Door App

Costco Scam Red Flags

Beware: this latest Costco scam is a phishing attempt to steal your personal information.

After answering a few survey questions, shoppers are then asked to fill out some personal info and pay a $10.99 shipping fee to receive the wagon. DO NOT FILL OUT ANYTHING.

Costco has not only warned shoppers this promotion is fake, but they have also listed several other prominent social media, email, and text scams that people need to avoid.

Getty Images

Here are some other important warning signs to look for in any phishing scam:

Suspicious sender email addresses.
Poor grammar or blurry logos.
Huge prizes for almost no effort.
Pressure tactics like “limited quantities available.”
Requests for credit card information to cover “fees.”
Links that do not lead to Costco’s official website.

If you received this Costco email scam, and already clicked the link and entered your information, act fast!

Contact your bank or credit card company immediately, freeze or replace your card, and monitor your statements closely for any suspicious charges.

KEEP LOOKING: See what 50 company logos looked like then and now

LOOK: 50 Famous brands that no longer exist

Stacker compiled a list of more than four dozen famous consumer brands that no longer exist, consulting sites such as TheStreet, Good Housekeeping, and Eat This, Not That!, along with numerous throwback sites dedicated to consumer brands.

Gallery Credit: Liz Barrett Foster