style tumbler scam or real? Reviews and complaints

 

The Dangers of Viral Tumbler Scams on Social Media

Insulated tumblers have become wildly popular in recent years thanks to brands like Yeti and Stanley. However, this rise in demand has also led to an increase in deceptive scam ads being spread across platforms like Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. In this post, we’ll take an in-depth look at how these “style tumbler scams” work and what consumers need to know to protect themselves.

How the Scams Work

The scams usually target popular tumbler brands like Stanley, Yeti, Hydro Flask and more by posting fake viral sales or clearance events. Some common tactics used include:

• Fakes ads for “$5.99 Stanley tumblers” or “$19 Yeti cups” with 95%+ off the normal retail price.

• Sites created to mirror the official brand storefront but with lower prices to attract buyers.

• Using social media influencers or popular review accounts to promote the “deals” through sponsored content.

• Once payment details are submitted, the products are either not delivered or are cheap knockoffs instead of the advertised name brand items.

• Domains hosting the scam sites are quickly abandoned once they receive enough orders or face complaints.

The goal is to capitalize on buzz around these products by fooling people into thinking they’ve found an incredibly rare sale. But no legitimate company would practically giveaway expensive, top-selling gear.

Signs to Spot a Tumbler Scam Ad

To avoid getting tricked, watch out for these red flags:

• Prices that seem too good to be true (i.e. >90% off retail with no discounts/codes provided).

• Sites with spelling/grammar errors, limited contact info or new domain registrations.

• Ads from accounts solely focused on selling rather than their usual personal content.

• Claims of limited stock or sales ending soon used to create urgency and reduce vetting.

• Products being dropshipped from China rather than direct from the true manufacturer.

• Inability to find the deal or company through official brand pages or searches.

• Zero customer service presence once issues arise post-purchase.

Doing research on domains and not relying solely on social proof can help skeptical buyers avoid losing money to fraudulent tumbler deals.

What Happens After You’re Scammed?

For those who unfortunately submit payment details already, it’s important to act quickly:

• Contact your bank/credit card company right away to dispute the charges.

• File a complaint with the FTC if it was an online purchase from a scam website.

• Monitor credit reports and statements for any unauthorized activity.

• Warn others by leaving reviews on sites like ScamAdvisor with specifics to expose the fraud.

• Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram have processes to report deceptive ads as well.

While a refund may be unlikely, taking prompt action at least prevents ongoing harm. And sharing learnings protects the wider community from also falling victim.

Alternatives to Consider Instead

Rather than taking chances on questionable deals, some reputable brands offering quality tumblers at fair prices include:

• Hydro Flask: Durable stainless steel designs from $29.95. Lifetime warranty and BPA free.

• Contigo: Affordable AUTOSEAL® options from $10.99 that prevent spills. Wide range of colors.

• Simple Modern: Bamboo and steel tumblers starting at $19.99. Sleek looks plus no sweat exteriors.

• Klean Kanteen: Classic stainless bottles from $25 backing environmental causes.

• Yeti: Investments like the Rambler from $29.99 come with renowned insulation.

• Takeya: Budget-friendly BPA free plastic and glass styles under $20.

Sticking with established brands through their official sites or major retailers ensures receiving what’s paid for with trustworthy post-purchase support guaranteed.

Final Thoughts on Avoiding Tumbler Scams

While insulated drinkware has become essential daily gear, scammers will continue exploiting demand through deceptive social marketing if it works. However, being conscientious consumers can help curb these fraudulent schemes.

Always fact check unbelievable deals online before purchasing. When in doubt, go directly through trusted brand stores or reputable third parties instead of risking shady pop-ups.

Reporting fraudulent ads helps platform algorithms improve detection too over time. With vigilance against the red flags shown, hopefully fewer will fall victim to “style tumbler scams” stealing both money and confidence from unsuspecting customers.

Following basic scam-spotting precautions protects wallets while simultaneously weakening the ability of these con artists to profit from others. Together the community can make a difference curbing these deceptions through education and solidarity in looking out for one another.