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| Dollar General Scam Sites |
The recent announcement of nearly 100 Dollar General store closures nationwide has given rise to a wave of online scams targeting unsuspecting shoppers. Fraudsters are exploiting the situation by setting up fake websites offering deep discounts to lure in victims.
What You Need to Know
- Dollar General is closing 96 Dollar General stores and 45 Popshelf locations in early 2025.
- Scammers are creating fake websites that look like the official Dollar General site, using the company’s logo and branding to trick customers.
- Fraudulent social media ads are promoting these fake Dollar General sites, advertising unrealistic discounts to attract buyers.
How the Scams Work
Scammers employ various tactics to deceive consumers, including:
- Fake Websites: These fraudulent sites closely resemble the official Dollar General website, often using the company’s logo and branding. The website URL may have slight alterations, such as misspellings or extra characters.
- Social Media Ads: Scammers promote these fake websites through social media advertisements, tempting shoppers with clearance sales and massive discounts.
- Payment Traps: Once customers enter their payment details, believing they are making a legitimate purchase, the scammers disappear—taking the money and shutting down the site.
The Consequences
Shoppers who fall victim to these scams often face:
- No Delivery of Products: Orders placed on fake websites never arrive.
- Financial Loss:
- Credit card users may have some protection by disputing charges.
- Debit card, prepaid card, or cash app (e.g., Venmo, Zelle) users may struggle to recover their money.
The Dollar General closures have created an opportunity for cybercriminals to exploit consumers looking for huge discounts. By staying alert, shoppers can protect themselves from fraud and ensure they are purchasing from legitimate retailers. Always double-check before entering payment details, and when in doubt, stick to trusted online stores.