A Cuban woman residing in the United States has taken to TikTok to warn fellow migrants in America about a scam that she claims is affecting those purchasing appliances and motor equipment to send to relatives on the island. "I'm making this video for Cubans here in the U.S. who buy things for their families in Cuba. They're scamming left and right," she declared. The woman, who deals in selling appliances, tricycles, and motorbikes in Holguín, Bayamo, Las Tunas, and nearby areas, shared her concerns.
She revealed that scammers are using the phone numbers of family members in Cuba to gain access to their WhatsApp accounts, impersonating them to their relatives in the U.S. After gaining their trust, the fraudsters claim the goods have been delivered and request a money transfer, thus completing the deception. "They exploit the fact that many people in Cuba aren't familiar with the Internet. With a code, they infiltrate the family member's WhatsApp and deceive the one here in the U.S. They say the equipment has arrived and that it's okay to transfer funds, which is where the scam happens," she warned.
The young seller emphasized that her clients should never pay upfront and advised verifying with Cuban relatives via video call that the items have been delivered before sending any money. "I understand the sacrifices made here to earn 200 or 300 dollars. It's outrageous what they're doing. That's why I always tell my clients to communicate with their families and only when they're completely sure the equipment is at home, then transfer the money. Nothing in advance, absolutely nothing," she stressed.
This warning adds to a growing number of alerts from Cubans about the rise in fraud related to selling goods through social media, a sector booming due to the economic crisis on the island and the increasing reliance of many households on support from relatives abroad.
Understanding the Scam Targeting Cuban Families
How do scammers deceive people in these fraudulent schemes?
Scammers exploit the lack of familiarity with the Internet among many Cubans. They use phone numbers to access WhatsApp accounts and impersonate family members to request money transfers from relatives in the U.S.
What precautions should be taken to avoid falling victim to these scams?
Never pay upfront for goods. Always confirm delivery through a video call with family members in Cuba before sending any money. Ensure the equipment is at home before making a transfer.