What is a Copycat scam?

A copycat scam is a type of fraudulent scheme where scammers mimic or replicate the branding, products, services, or communications of legitimate companies to deceive consumers. These scams can take various forms, but they typically aim to trick people into thinking they are dealing with a trusted, well-known entity, leading them to hand over money, personal information, or access to their financial accounts. These websites may offer everything from counterfeit products to nonexistent services, often at too-good-to-be-true prices. 

Phishing emails are another common tool in copycat scams, designed to appear as if they’ve been sent by reputable sources like banks or major companies. These emails typically include links that lead to fraudulent websites intended to steal personal information.

How can you stay safe?

Always verify the source before engaging or making a purchase. Check the URL closely for misspellings or incorrect domains, and look for secure website indicators like “https://” and a padlock icon in the address bar. Be skeptical of unsolicited emails and offers that seem too good to be true, especially those requesting urgent actions or payments. 

Purchase products from reputable sellers or directly from official websites, and never provide personal information or make payments in response to unexpected requests. Additionally, use tools like Google Search to verify the legitimacy of companies and offers, and consider implementing credit freezes or alerts to protect your identity.