Target and Kohl’s Answer & Win Le Creuset Email: Why It’s a Scam

Have you received an email from Target or Kohl’s which says ‘Answer & win a brand new Le Creuset’? If yes, you’re not alone. Since October 2022, hundred of people have reported receiving similar email, which promises a Le Creuset after completion of survey.

I received same target unlocked winner email last week, and I decided to play along to know what the guys behind the email are up to, and how they intend to gift me this super cooker. First of all, the email didn’t come from the official Target email address which ends in @target.com. It was from an odd looking address which itself was a redflag. See the email below –

The email contained an attachment which I was told to click on. However, when I did so, instead of one survey question as stated, the questionnaire was 8 questions long, and then it says free shipping. 

This is where the scam comes in.

When I completed the survey, I was told to pay a shipping fee of $4.96. This was quite surprising as moments ago I was told ‘Free shipping’. However, I was not surprised.  The saying ‘if it is too good to be true it certainly isn’t true’ is a favorite mantra of mine.

So what happens when you pay the shipping fee?

When you provide your credit card information, these scammers will delete every dime you have in your bank account. This is because they’re not the legit Target or Kohl’s company, and they don’t have any free gift for you.

Meanwhile visiting the link attached to the text, can also expose your phone to malware.

Why It’s a Scam

• The email doesn’t come from an official email address
• It uses tinyurl.5ru, a known problematic link shortener which often directs to malicious websites
• There are complaints online about this exact email

Meanwhile, if you’ve already clicked on the link you should Install an anti-phishing software. This will scan your device and protect it from any virus attack.

What Should You Do If You Receive Phishing Texts Like This

No matter how convincing it sounds, you shouldn’t visit the link or links attached to such messages/mails or send your personal information.

The first thing you should do is ignore such messages, and look for reviews online about it.

See similar Giveaway scams – Amazon Package Loyalty Reward, UKPepsi Lottery Scam, Eyeverify, Bath$Body Coupon, Amazon Airpods Raffle Scam, and many more.