SMiShing Scam alert: Text messages and emails offering free groceries from stores amid coronavirus pandemic is fake

Recently got a text message to mobile stating to claim few stores were giving away free groceries due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Warning....warning.., It’s a scam.

Stating Target store: the text reads that you are qualified for $175 worth of free groceries and comes with a link to redeem the offer. (Received thru Mobile)

Stating Costco store: the text reads that Costco is giving away free grocery worth $125 to everyone this week to support the nation during Corona Pandemic. (Received thru WhatsApp groups)



Few messages were also circulated in different groups of WhatsApp.

“Don’t click on or respond to online ads or websites offering free gift cards or vouchers. These are scams.”

However, the link can install an undetected virus, malware, spyware or ransomware on your device — enabling hackers to obtain personal information, such as passwords to mobile banking and email, as well as credit card information or any other confidential data.

Last December, Kroger was also the victim of a giveaway hoax on social media. A Facebook post from an account disguising itself as the grocery chain under the name “Kroger.com," instead of Kroger's real Facebook page name "Kroger," offered an entire year of free groceries to “four lucky families” who shared and commented on the post.

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