Facebook’s Secret Sister Gift Exchange is a Scam and Illegal

Now that the holiday season is here again, so is a familiar holiday scam that’s making its way around Facebook. I have to admit that I was asked on a few occasions to participate and gullible me didn’t have any idea it’s a SCAM!

If you have Facebook friends like mine re-posting a message on Facebook about the "secret sister gift exchange," stay away. The basic message reads, that if you purchase a gift for $10 or more and add your name to a list, you'll receive a cache of 36 presents in return. The problem? It’s a scam and also illegal. Pyramid schemes don’t comply with United Post Office regulations. Your chances of getting caught are minimal, but as soon as the gift is mailed it will become an illegal act.

Supplying, sharing or posting personal info on Facebook could also get you in hot water as it will violate the site’s terms of the agreement so you may get kicked off of Facebook.

“With all the negativity around us, let’s create some positivity over the next few weeks leading up to the holidays! Anyone interested in a holiday gift exchange? It doesn’t matter where you live, you are welcome to join. I need at least 6 (or more!!) ladies of any age to participate in a secret sister gift exchange. You only have to buy ONE gift valued at $10 or more and send it to ONE secret sister. Afterwards, you will receive between 6 and 36 gifts in return!! It all depends how many ladies join. Let me know if you are interested and I will send you the information!
Comment below if you’re interested and I’ll send you the details!”

If you see the "secret sister gift exchange," message appear on your news feed, report it to Facebook, but whatever you do, don’t participate!