A deceptive practice targeting users of the social media platform’s e-commerce feature, this involves fraudulent schemes related to the delivery of goods. Individuals are often misled into paying for items that are never shipped or receive goods significantly different from what was advertised. For example, a buyer might pay for an electronic device advertised online but instead receive an empty box or a counterfeit item via mail.
These schemes are significant because they result in financial losses for buyers and undermine trust in online marketplaces. Historically, such deceptions have existed across various forms of commerce, but the ease and accessibility of social media platforms have facilitated their spread. This undermines the integrity of the digital economy and necessitates increased awareness and preventative measures.