A Cuban woman living in the United States has taken to TikTok to expose a fraudulent scheme involving counterfeit checks, after falling victim to what she initially thought was a legitimate advertising collaboration with a purported jewelry company.
“I'm sharing this story time so it doesn't happen to you,” she began in her video. The woman explained that she was approached to promote jewelry in exchange for $400: $200 upfront and $200 upon completing the contract.
After agreeing, she received a digital check for $445 and deposited it into her bank account. However, the individual who hired her then requested she transfer $245 to a supposed supplier, which raised her suspicions. “That was a huge red flag,” she recounted. Despite her husband's warning, she proceeded to send the money, only to be notified later by the bank that the check had bounced and the transfer was unsuccessful.
As a result, she lost $200 of her own money and publicly exposed the scam to caution other social media users. “Seriously, be very careful with this,” she warned.
In recent months, there has been a surge in reports of digital fraud attempts targeting Cubans in the United States, exploiting the popularity of platforms like TikTok and the rise of online advertising collaborations.
Understanding Digital Fraud and How to Protect Yourself
What are common signs of a digital scam?
Common signs include requests for money transfers, promises of easy money, and pressure to act quickly without giving you time to verify the legitimacy of the offer.
How can I verify if a company is legitimate?
Research the company online, check for reviews, and verify contact information. Look for official websites and be cautious with companies that only operate through social media.
What should I do if I suspect a scam?
Immediately stop communication, do not send any money, and report the incident to the appropriate authorities or platforms involved.