BBB Warns 100,000 Online Purchase Scams Tied to Fake AI Influencers and Hidden Ads
Updated
Updated · KOMO News · Aug 8
BBB Warns 100,000 Online Purchase Scams Tied to Fake AI Influencers and Hidden Ads
1 articles · Updated · KOMO News · Aug 8
Summary
Nearly 100,000 online purchase scams were reported across the U.S. over the past 24 months, the BBB said, warning that social media pitches can mask scams and bad purchases.
Nearly half of those reports involved social media, where the BBB said consumers face three recurring tactics: undisclosed paid endorsements, fake expertise or product use, and AI-generated identities or testimonials.
Washington shoppers alone reported more than 2,700 online purchase scams and over $1.2 million in losses, underscoring how convincing those posts can be.
The BBB urged buyers to verify influencers outside social platforms, check businesses independently, and use credit cards instead of gift cards, crypto or wire transfers that are harder to recover.
The warning highlights a broader shift in online fraud, with scammers using AI to fabricate experts, customers and even entire personas to steal payments or push questionable products.