Shein Warns Consumers About Proliferation of Online Scams Mimicking Its Brand
Shein, the global online fashion retailer, is alerting consumers to a rise in scams that mimic its official website, advertisements, and communications. Scammers are creating fake Shein stores, offering fraudulent gift cards and giveaways, sending deceptive texts and emails, and running misleading ads on social media platforms. These fraudulent activities aim to trick consumers into divulging personal information or making purchases on fake sites. Common tactics include slightly altered web addresses (e.g., 'shein-outlet-sale' instead of shein.com), unusually deep discounts (80-90% off everything), and requests for unusual payment methods like gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has also warned against sellers demanding such payment methods, indicating a high probability of a scam. Shein emphasizes that its official store is only accessible via shein.com and its official app, and any offers found elsewhere should be treated with suspicion.