A scam is falsely advertising free Le Creuset cookware, using the names of celebrities like Joanna Gaines, Ree Drummond, Lainey Wilson, Rachael Ray, Oprah Winfrey, Ellen DeGeneres, Paula Deen, Martha Stewart, and Trisha Yearwood. These ads appear on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram, promising a chance to win Le Creuset sets. However, these celebrities are not involved in these offers. The scam leads people to websites that secretly charge money. The ads use famous names to attract people, but their real goal is to make people pay hidden fees.
If you want to know more about this scam, such as how it works, how it can affect you, and ways to avoid falling for similar scams, read our full article. We explain in detail how to identify these scams and protect yourself from online fraud. Our article gives you the information you need to stay safe when you see offers online.
Table of Contents
π¨ Scam Overview
The Le Creuset giveaway scam involves fake social media advertisements claiming to offer free Le Creuset cookware, exploiting the names of celebrities like Joanna Gaines, Oprah Winfrey, Trisha Yearwood, Paula Deen, or Martha Stewart.
These ads, primarily found on Facebook and Instagram, lead people to external websites. The websites promise free cookware but are actually designed to collect personal information and charge hidden fees.
The celebrities mentioned have no real association with these offers, and the Le Creuset brand is not involved in these supposed giveaways. The main goal of this scam is to deceive people into signing up for costly subscriptions or making unintended payments.
The scam ads read as follows:
#1:
Le Creuset Cookware Giveaway Scam Alert β What You Need to Know
I’m back again with another INSANE giveaway from πΓ© ππΏπ²πππ²π – This time we’re giving away FREE cookware sets!
QUICKEYSNACKSQ.COM
Trisha’s MASSIVE Holiday Giveaway is Here!
#2:
I’m back again with another CRAZY giveaway from πΓ© ππΏπ²πππ²π!! This time we’re giving away FREE cookware sets!
MADRIDMAKEUPP.COM
Trisha’s HUGE Holiday Giveaway is Here!
#3:
ππDAY 8 of Our 12 Days of Christmas Give_away Sponsored by Trisha & Garth!
TURBOABOUT.CLICK
turboabout.click
#4:
I’m back again with another INSANE giveaway from πΓ© ππΏπ²πππ²π – This time we’re giving away FREE cookware sets!
VIRIDIANSPORTSCAVERN.COM
Just In Time For Christmas!
π© Signs of the Scam
- Celebrity Endorsements Without Verification: The ads use names of celebrities like Trisha Yearwood, Joanna Gaines, Oprah Winfrey, Paula Deen, or Martha Stewart, but these endorsements are not backed by any credible sources.
- Suspicious Website Links: Clicking on the ads takes you to external websites like quickeysnacksq.com, madridmakeupp.com, dailyreddit.com, viridiansportscavern.com, premierwinnerofthemonth.com, thegreatestdraw.com and prizequestcentral.com that imitate news articles, Le Creuset surveys, rather than legitimate, official sites.
- Requests for Personal Information: These sites often ask for personal details and credit card information under the guise of a free offer, which is a common tactic in online scams.
- Hidden Fees in Terms and Conditions: The fine print on these websites may reveal unexpected charges, such as subscriptions or membership fees that are not clearly disclosed upfront.
- Too-Good-to-Be-True Offers: The promise of free high-value items like Le Creuset cookware sets should be approached with skepticism, as genuine giveaways of this nature are rare.
- High-Pressure Tactics: Creates urgency with limited-time offers and countdown timers.
- Lack of Verifiable Contact Information: Absence of legitimate contact details or customer service info.
In summary, the Le Creuset giveaway scam is a fraudulent online scheme using false celebrity endorsements to lure victims. The ads appear legitimate but lead to websites designed to extract money through hidden charges. These scams can be identified by their use of celebrity names, suspicious websites, and offers that seem unusually generous. It’s important to be cautious with online giveaways, especially those asking for personal or payment information. By being aware of these signs, individuals can better protect themselves from falling victim to such online scams.
π΅οΈββοΈ How the Le Creuset Giveaway Scam Works
The Le Creuset Giveaway scam is a deceptive practice that has gained traction on various social media platforms. At its core, this scam involves fake advertisements promising free Le Creuset cookware, often using unauthorized endorsements from well-known celebrities to lure unsuspecting individuals. These ads cleverly mislead people into visiting fraudulent websites, where they are enticed to enter personal information and credit card details under the guise of participating in a giveaway.
π Social Media Post
Scammers post on social media platforms like Facebook, TikTok and Instagram, using the names of well-known celebrities and Le Creuset to attract attention. These ads typically feature images of cookware and persuasive text to create excitement. Users, believing the posts to be legitimate, are enticed to click on them.
π° Fake News Articles
The social media ads lead to a bogus news website, (quickeysnacksq.com, madridmakeupp.com, dailyreddit.com, viridiansportscavern.com, etc), which hosts articles claiming a collaboration between Trisha Yearwood, Joanna Gaines, Oprah Winfrey, Paula Deen, or Martha Stewart, and Le Creuset. These articles are crafted to look authentic, complete with compelling headlines and convincing details. The website is designed to mimic legitimate news sources, adding to the illusion of credibility.
π Fake Survey for Personal Information Collection
On this fake news site, users are asked to complete a survey to participate in the giveaway. This survey is a ruse to harvest personal information. The questions are typically simple, lulling the user into a false sense of security. Completing the survey gives the scammers valuable data that can be used for identity theft or sold on.
π ‘Congratulations, Claim Offer’ Prompt
After the survey, a message appears congratulating the user and inviting them to claim the cookware offer. This step is designed to make the user feel like they have won something valuable. The congratulatory message builds trust and excitement, urging the user to proceed. Clicking to claim the offer takes the user to the next phase of the scam.
ποΈ Entering Personal Data
Users are redirected to prizequestcentral.com, where they are asked to enter more personal details, ostensibly to receive the Le Creuset cookware. This site is designed to look like a legitimate shopping site, complete with product descriptions and images. The request for personal details is framed as necessary for shipping the ‘won’ items.
π³ Credit Card Details for Shipping Payment
On prizequestcentral.com, users are prompted to provide credit card details to cover the shipping cost of the free cookware. This step is critical for scammers, as it gives them access to financial information. The shipping fee, usually a small amount, is used to make the scam seem more believable. Users, thinking they are getting a great deal, are more likely to comply.
π Hidden Terms with Malicious Subscriptions
The terms and conditions, linked on prizequestcentral.com, are a critical element of the scam. These terms reveal that by participating, users are unknowingly agreeing to a substantial subscription fee. Specifically, they detail a one-time charge of $179.84 at checkout and an ongoing monthly charge of the same amount. This information is strategically placed in a manner that makes it unlikely for an average user to notice. The terms effectively enroll victims in an expensive recurring subscription, which many may not realize until they see the charges on their bank statements. This tactic is designed to extract as much money as possible before the user becomes aware of the scam.
Membership Fees:
In the event that you choose to join as an individual from the Le Creuset Cookware Giveaway which is separate from the sweepstakes, you consent to the full enrollment charge. A one-time charge of $179.84 at checkout. You will gain admittance to our top notch content which incorporates usage of healthy meal plans application; or month to month membership to a healthy meal plans, and you can cancel at any time. You may cancel your membership whenever by reaching our customer service by email, or complementary phone 8778255484. Also, you concur that for the membership segment of the enrollment, Le Creuset Cookware Giveaway will automatically charge the same credit card you provided a fee of $179.84 (billed every 30 days) unless you choose to cancel. You may cancel your enrollment to avoid future charging and you may get a refund in the event that you cancel inside 14 days of any charge. To cancel or demand a refund call client assistance at 8778255484.
To stay safe, always be wary of offers that seem too good to be true, and double-check any promotions through official and recognized channels. Avoid sharing personal or financial information on suspicious platforms.
π‘ Beware of Similar Scams
Scams like the Le Creuset Giveaway are not isolated incidents. They are part of a broader pattern of online fraud targeting fans of celebrities and popular products. Here are other notable examples:
KOHLβS Le Creuset Scam
Similar to the Le Creuset Giveaway scam, this one promised users a chance to get a premium Le Creuset product from KOHLβS for a fraction of its regular price or as a giveaway. However, those who fell for the trap either never received the product or found unrelated items added to their online shopping carts.
Guy Fieri Pit Boss Scam
This scam leveraged the popularity of celebrity chef Guy Fieri to deceive people on Facebook. It promised a free Pit Boss grill, a popular brand in the barbecue community, supposedly endorsed by Fieri. Similar to the Le Creuset scam, users were led through a series of steps, including surveys and personal information submission, under the guise of winning a grill. This scam likely ended with requests for shipping fees or other payments, harvesting both personal data and financial information.
Mr Beast Giveaway Scam
The popular YouTuber Mr Beast is known for his legitimate and extravagant giveaways. Scammers took advantage of his reputation by creating fake giveaway campaigns in his name, asking participants to provide personal details or even make a small payment to qualify.
Shein Summer Giveaway Scam
The popular online clothing store Shein was used as a front for this scam. Users were promised huge summer giveaways, often with the caveat of paying minimal fees or sharing the giveaway with friends. However, the “giveaways” never materialized, and many participants reported data breaches or suspicious online activity afterward.
It’s essential to remember that if an online offer sounds too good to be true, it often is. Always approach such deals with caution, verify them through official channels, and never share personal or financial information without thorough scrutiny.
π± What to Do If Scammed
If you’ve been caught up in the Le Creuset Giveaway scam, don’t panic. It’s important to act quickly to protect yourself and your finances. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do next:
π¦ Contact Your Financial Institution
Immediately inform your bank or credit card company about the unauthorized transaction. They may be able to stop the transaction, reverse it, or even issue a chargeback. Request a new credit/debit card if you believe your card details have been compromised. Document any financial losses. This can be essential for investigations and potential reimbursements.
π Change Passwords
If you suspect your personal information, especially passwords, have been compromised, change them immediately. This is crucial for accounts linked to financial institutions or personal data. Consider using a reputable password manager to ensure strong, unique passwords for each account.
π Monitor Your Accounts
Keep a close eye on your bank and credit card statements for the next several months. Look for any unauthorized or suspicious transactions, no matter how small. Consider enrolling in a credit monitoring service. Some services will alert you to changes in your credit report, potentially indicating identity theft.
π Report the Scam
If you encountered scam ads on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok or other platforms, report them so they can be removed.
π» Check Your Computer
If you’ve downloaded any file or clicked on any links, your device might be infected. Run a comprehensive antivirus scan.
π Educate Yourself
Familiarize yourself with common scam tactics to avoid falling victim in the future. Stay updated on recent scams or phishing methods by following news sources or official government warnings.
π’ Inform Others
Warn friends and family about the scam, especially if it’s widespread. Sharing your experience can help protect others from the same pitfalls.
Summary Table
| Name | Le Creuset Giveaway Scam, Free Le Creuset Cookware Giveaway Scam |
| Type | Online Giveaway/Shopping Scam |
| Fake Claims | free Le Creuset cookware sets, endorsed by celebrities like Joanna Gaines, Ree Drummond, Lainey Wilson, Rachael Ray, Oprah Winfrey, Ellen DeGeneres, Paula Deen, Martha Stewart, and Trisha Yearwood. |
| Disguise | Presented as legitimate Le Creuset giveaways on social media platforms, especially Facebook and Instagram. |
| Scammers’ websites | quickeysnacksq.com, madridmakeupp.com, dailyreddit.com, viridiansportscavern.com, premierwinnerofthemonth.com, thegreatestdraw.com, prizequestcentral.com |
| Credit Card Charge | Exquisitehandcraftedje 8772153369 8778255484 NC |
| Damage | Financial losses due to unauthorized credit card charges from hidden subscriptions; potential risk of identity theft from personal information collected. |
| Distribution | Distributed via paid social media advertisements, targeting users who might be interested in cooking or the celebrities mentioned. |
| Indicators of the scam | Unverified use of celebrity names, links leading to non-official, poorly designed websites, requests for sensitive personal and financial information, small print revealing hidden fees, offers that are unrealistic (e.g., high-value items for free). |
| Prevention Tips | Cross-check offers with official celebrity and brand websites, refrain from providing personal details on unverified sites, read all terms carefully before agreeing, maintain skepticism towards free offers of expensive items, use ad blockers or report suspicious ads on social media. |
| Reporting Info | Report suspicious ads directly on social media platforms; For financial fraud, contact your bank immediately; In the U.S., consider reporting to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at reportfraud.ftc.gov. |
How to Spot Le Creuset Scam Websites
Identifying websites associated with the Le Creuset scam is crucial to avoid falling victim. Here’s what to look for:
π Unverified Celebrity Endorsements
If a website claims that celebrities like Joanna Gaines, Oprah Winfrey, Ellen DeGeneres, or Trisha Yearwood are endorsing a giveaway, double-check these claims. Most legitimate celebrity endorsements can be verified through official social media channels or news releases.
π Suspicious URLs and Web Design
Pay close attention to the website’s address and design. Scam websites often have URLs that look odd or misspelled (e.g., ‘madridmakeupp.com’). Their design might be poor, with low-quality images and typos.
π Overly Aggressive Marketing
Be wary of websites that aggressively push for personal information or immediate action. Legitimate giveaways wonβt pressure you to act quickly or share sensitive information.
π Requests for Personal or Financial Information
A big red flag is when a site asks for your credit card details for a ‘free’ offer. Never enter your financial information unless you are absolutely sure about the websiteβs legitimacy.
π Hidden Fees in Fine Print
Always read the terms and conditions. Scam sites often hide information about subscription fees or other charges in the small print.
π€ Too Good to Be True Offers
If the offer seems unbelievable, like receiving expensive Le Creuset sets for free, itβs likely a scam. Always approach such offers with skepticism.
π Check the Links
If the website links to other suspicious or unrelated pages, itβs likely not legitimate.
By keeping these points in mind, you can more easily spot and avoid websites associated with the Le Creuset scam. Remember, if something looks too good to be true, it probably is. Stay vigilant and always verify the authenticity of giveaway offers.
How to Identify Le Creuset Scams on Facebook
Spotting the Le Creuset cookware giveaway scam on Facebook is key to avoiding potential fraud. Here’s what you need to look out for:
π Suspicious Ad Content
Scam ads often use high-quality images of Le Creuset cookware with text promising a free giveaway. Look for exaggerated claims or overly enthusiastic language, like “Win a Free Set Now”, “we’re giving away FREE cookware sets”.
π Fake Celebrity Endorsements
If the ad claims that celebrities like Joanna Gaines, Oprah Winfrey, Ellen DeGeneres, or Trisha Yearwood are involved, cross-check these claims. Most often, these celebrities are not actually endorsing these giveaways.
π Check the Adβs Link
Before clicking, hover over the link to see the URL. If the link leads to a non-Le Creuset official site or a website with a strange address, itβs likely a scam.
π Unusual Engagement Patterns
Look at the comments and reactions. Often, scam ads will have comments from users calling out the scam or sharing negative experiences.
π Investigate the Advertiser’s Profile
Click on the profile of the advertiser. If the page has little content, is newly created, or lacks legitimacy, itβs likely part of the scam.
π« No Verification or Official Partnership
Check if the Facebook page is verified (with a blue checkmark) or has any official partnership with Le Creuset. Scam pages usually lack these credentials.
π Too-Good-to-Be-True Offers
Be skeptical of any offer that seems unrealistic. Genuine giveaways by big brands are usually accompanied by official announcements or campaigns.
π Requests for Personal Information
If the ad or the linked page asks for personal details or credit card information for a free giveaway, itβs a definite red flag.
By being aware of these signs, you can better identify and avoid falling for the Le Creuset cookware giveaway scam on Facebook. Always approach online giveaways with caution and do your due diligence before participating.
How to Identify Le Creuset Scams on Instagram
Recognizing the Le Creuset cookware giveaway scam on Instagram is essential for online safety. Hereβs a guide to help you spot these scams:
π€¨ Skepticism Towards Celebrity Endorsements
Be wary of ads claiming Joanna Gaines, Oprah Winfrey, Ellen DeGeneres, Trisha Yearwood, Paula Deen, Martha Stewart or other celebrities are endorsing Le Creuset cookware, especially from unknown accounts. Legitimate endorsements usually come from the celebritiesβ official accounts.
π© Suspicious Phrases in Ads
Phrases like βThanks to Trisha Yearwood, weβre giving away Le Creuset! Click here to claim yours!β, “I’m back again with another INSANE giveaway from πΓ© ππΏπ²πππ²π”, “ππDAY 8 of Our 12 Days of Christmas Give_away Sponsored by Trisha & Garth” are major red flags. Genuine giveaways donβt typically use this kind of language.
π Account Verification
Carefully check the Instagram account running the ad. Scammers often create accounts that mimic the official @lecreuset handle with slight variations to appear authentic.
π Link Inspection
Examine the link in the ad. Scammers use redirects to fake celebrity giveaway sites instead of the real Le Creuset website.
πΈ Unrealistic Discount Offers
Be cautious of offers like β95% off Le Creuset thanks to Martha Stewartβ. Genuine deals from big brands are rarely this extreme.
β Celebrity-Selected Item Claims
Ads suggesting celebrities have specifically chosen items for giveaways are often scams. This technique is used to create a false sense of legitimacy.
Remember: Apply extra scrutiny to Instagram ads claiming to offer celebrity Le Creuset deals. Always verify the account, the link, the details of the offer, and the celebrity association before clicking or providing any personal information. Stay alert and question the authenticity of such offers to avoid falling for these scams.
How to Identify Le Creuset Scams on TikTok
TikTok is another platform where the Le Creuset cookware giveaway scam is prevalent. Here are key signs to help you identify these scams:
π Questionable Celebrity-Endorsed Ads
Be cautious of TikTok ads claiming Rachael Ray or other celebrities are endorsing free Le Creuset pans. These offers are typically not genuine.
π Suspicious Captions and Links
Captions like βClick my link to claim the Le Creuset x Martha Stewart collection!β accompanied by unusual links are a common scam tactic.
π₯ Video Source Verification
If it’s a video, check who uploaded it. Scam videos usually originate from fake accounts, not the official Le Creuset TikTok account.
πΌοΈ Edited Logos and Celebrity Images
Watch out for videos where logos and photos of celebrities seem poorly edited or out of place. This is a typical sign of a scam.
π« Fake Creator Claims
If a TikTok creator claims βTrisha Yearwood gave me these Le Creuset pots to give awayβ. itβs false. No such celebrity partnership with Le Creuset exists.
β οΈ Unrealistic Offers in Captions
Be skeptical of ads or captions that promise free, expensive cookware just for completing a quick survey. These are likely scams.
Be vigilant: Always scrutinize TikTok videos, captions, and ads that offer celebrity Le Creuset giveaways. Avoid giving your personal information to such dubious sources. If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. Stay alert and protect your personal data from scammers on TikTok.
Conclusion
The Le Creuset giveaway scam is a well-orchestrated online fraud. Utilizing social media platforms, scammers post alluring offers of free Le Creuset cookware, a tactic primarily aimed at gathering personal and financial information from victims. These scammers operate through scam websites, such as quickeysnacksq.com, dailyreddit.com, viridiansportscavern.com, premierwinnerofthemonth.com, prizequestcentral.com, which are disguised to look like legitimate news outlets or shopping sites, adding a layer of false credibility to their scheme.
The scam process typically involves filling out surveys and providing credit card details under the pretext of covering shipping fees. This approach is carefully crafted to mislead and convince people of the offerβs authenticity. However, the ultimate goal is to enroll the victims in hidden subscription services, leading to unexpected charges on their credit cards.
This fraudulent scheme underscores the importance of vigilance and careful scrutiny of online offers, especially those requiring the submission of personal or financial information.
