The Facebook posts promise those who exchange gifts secretly via email or social media that you could get up to 36 gifts for sending a present to a stranger valued at $10.
It is a pyramid scheme, the BBB says, meaning it depends on recruiting others to keep it going with the promise of gifts filling your mailbox.
Technically the "Secret Sister" exchange, like any other pyramid scheme is illegal in the U.S. and Canada. It's a form of gambling, and participants could face charges of mail fraud, a fine or even jail time.
The BBB also says by taking part, you could be giving cyber thieves open access to your information, setting yourself up for more scams or even identity theft.
So what should you do if you get tagged in a post or receive an email for the "Secret Sister" exchange?
- Ignore it.
- Report it.
- Don't give your information.
- Be wary of false claims.
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