BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) – A new scam on the rise involves a phishing email asking for a quick favor, but experts warn the author is no friend of yours.
The letter often starts with something like, “Do you have a minute?” or “Can you help me out?” and looks like something a friend might actually write. Then it asks you to purchase a gift card for a friend or family member because the writer is traveling and having trouble purchasing the card online. They promise to pay you back when they return.
The Better Business Bureau warns the letter may look legit but it’s another scam.
“Obviously, most of us want to help a friend out, but we’re asking people if it’s an email, a text or via your social media platform, you want to exercise caution here,” said Paula Fleming of the Better Business Bureau.
Fleming says if you get a message like this, reach out to your friend directly to make sure it’s legitimate.
Watch the video to see our Cat Viglienzoni’s full conversation with Fleming.
Click here for more tips from the Better Business Bureau.