IKEA scams (full list of scams to watch out for)
While IKEA is a mecca for affordable furniture and home accessories, it’s also a popular target for scammers.
Here’s a full list of scams to watch out for when shopping at IKEA so you can stay safe and focus on better things like getting the best deals!
The IKEA scam in 2022
In 2022, criminals will increasingly target IKEA shoppers for scams. Many use phone calls, emails and text messages to direct shoppers to fake websites claiming their private information. To avoid scams at IKEA, please be aware of any unsolicited emails or messages and never give out your personal information to people you don’t know.
Read on for a complete list of scams to watch out for when shopping at IKEA and tips to avoid them!
1. Fake IKEA promotions
IKEA is known for its affordable prices, so it’s no surprise that scammers try to take advantage of this by offering fake promotions.
So be wary of any emails or social media posts promising deep discounts or free items from IKEA. Essentially, unless you’re 100% sure they’re legal, it’s best to avoid them.
2. Phishing scams
Phishing scams are common online, and IKEA has been a target in the past.
Typically, these scams involve people impersonating an IKEA representative and trying to obtain personal information such as your credit card number or social security number.
So if you get an unsolicited email or message claiming to be from IKEA, don’t reply – just delete it.
3. Phishing scams
Phishing scams don’t happen online like phishing, they happen over the phone. Likewise, someone will impersonate an IKEA representative and try to obtain personal information from you.
So if you receive a suspicious call claiming to be from IKEA, hang up immediately. Most importantly, don’t give them any information.
4. Fraud
Likewise, smishing scams are SMS-based versions of phishing.
With smishing, shoppers may receive text messages from unknown numbers that appear to be from Ikea, asking them to click on a link or respond with a personal message.
As with phishing and phishing, don’t reply to these messages – just delete them.
5. IKEA delivery scams
When shopping at IKEA, you can have your purchases delivered to your door.
However, scammers have been known to impersonate IKEA delivery drivers to get into people’s homes.
If someone claiming to be an IKEA delivery driver shows up at your door without an appointment, don’t let them in. Instead, call IKEA customer service to verify their identity.
6. IKEA Assembly Scams
Another common scam involving IKEA deliveries is the assembly scam. In these scams, someone will offer to assemble IKEA furniture for you – for a fee, of course.
Beware of anyone offering this service as this is most likely a scam.
Plus, IKEA furniture is designed to be easy to assemble, so there’s usually no need to pay someone else to assemble it for you.
7. IKEA returns scam
When returning an item to IKEA, you may be asked to provide your personal information, such as your social security number or driver’s license number.
However, be cautious about providing this information, especially online or over the phone, as it could be used for identity theft.
Instead, if you are reluctant to provide this information, please call IKEA and ask to speak to the manager.
8. IKEA gift card scam
Although they can happen at any time, gift card scams are most common during the holidays.
In these scams, someone promises a free IKEA gift card in exchange for your personal information.
As always, be wary of anyone asking for your personal information – unless you’re absolutely sure they’re legitimate, it’s best to avoid them.
What can victims of IKEA scams do?
If you think you’ve been the victim of an IKEA scam, there are a few things you can do.
First, contact IKEA customer service and file a complaint, an employee may help resolve the issue or put you in touch with someone you can contact.
Additionally, you should contact your local Better Business Bureau to file a complaint to see if there are any other complaints about companies or individuals involved in the scam.
Finally, you can file a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
Simply put, the FTC collects complaints about companies and individuals using deception, fraud, or other unfair practices to harm consumers.
By submitting a report, you can help them investigate these scammers and take action.
How to avoid IKEA scams?
Overall, the best way to avoid IKEA scams is to know about them.
Also, keep in mind that IKEA will never ask you for personal information, such as your social security number or credit card number, via text or email.
So if you’ve ever been asked for this information, you’ve been scammed.
When shopping at IKEA or any other store, be sure to be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings close by, this will help deter pickpockets and thieves.
Finally, if you receive suspicious calls, emails or text messages claiming to be from IKEA, please do not reply.
To learn more, you can also read our posts on IKEA headquarters, IKEA complaints and IKEA competitors.
in conclusion
Ikea scams are becoming more common, so be aware of them. Following the tips in this article can help protect yourself from these scams.
Also, if you think you are the victim of an IKEA scam, be sure to contact IKEA customer service and file a complaint.
