SampleGifted.com is a fraudulent website exploiting trust to steal data and generate revenue. Promising a $750 Costco gift card, it lures users into a maze of scams.
In this article, we uncover its deceptive mechanics, legal violations, real user fallout, and actionable steps to safeguard against such schemes.
Understanding SampleGifted.com
SampleGifted.com masquerades as a rewards platform, leveraging the allure of high-value gift cards to manipulate users. The site’s design mimics legitimate promotional campaigns, complete with professional graphics and step-by-step instructions.
Visitors are told they can claim a $750 Costco gift card by completing simple tasks, such as submitting an email address, sharing personal details, and engaging with third-party offers.
However, the platform’s sole purpose is to redirect users to affiliate marketing partners, where scammers earn commissions for every click, app install, or survey completion.
The promised gift card is nonexistent, and users are left with nothing but spam, wasted time, and potential security risks.
Key Red Flags Exposing the Scam
Unauthorized Use of Costco Branding
The website prominently displays Costco’s logo, color schemes, and branding elements to create a facade of legitimacy. However, Costco has explicitly denied any partnership with SampleGifted.com, confirming it is an unauthorized entity.
Brand impersonation is a common tactic in phishing scams, as it preys on public trust in established companies.
Legal experts emphasize that misusing trademarks without permission violates intellectual property laws. Costco’s legal team has historically pursued such scams, issuing cease-and-desist orders and collaborating with authorities to shut them down.
Suspicious Redirects and Affiliate Links
After users click the “Start Now” button, they are redirected to unrelated websites, including online gambling platforms, subscription traps, and app download pages. These redirects are part of an affiliate marketing network, where scammers earn revenue based on user engagement.
For example, one redirect leads to 1xBet, a controversial gambling site known for aggressive advertising. Others direct users to download apps that may contain malware or charge hidden fees. These practices highlight the scam’s focus on monetizing clicks rather than delivering rewards.
Complete Lack of Transparency
Legitimate businesses provide clear information about ownership, location, and contact details. SampleGifted.com operates anonymously, with no “About Us” section, company registration number, or physical address. The absence of a privacy policy or terms of service further signals its illegitimacy.
Cybersecurity experts note that anonymous domains are a hallmark of fraudulent operations. Without accountability, scammers can disappear overnight, leaving victims with no recourse.
Newly Registered Domain
The domain SampleGifted.com was registered on March 24, 2025, according to WHOIS records. Newly created domains are a major red flag, as scammers often use them to evade detection. These sites typically operate for 3–6 months before shutting down or rebranding under a new name.
Domains with short lifespans avoid building a negative reputation, making it harder for security tools to block them proactively.
Fake Testimonials and Influencer Promotions
The scam relies heavily on social media influencers to amplify its reach. These promoters, often unverified accounts on TikTok and YouTube, post videos claiming they “successfully redeemed” the $750 gift card. The clips feature doctored screenshots and scripted reactions to create false credibility.
In reality, these influencers are either paid affiliates or bots designed to spread the scam. Legitimate giveaways from brands like Costco are announced through official channels, not random social media accounts.
How the Scam Operates: A Step-by-Step Breakdown
Baiting Users with False Promises
The scheme begins with ads or influencer posts claiming, “I got a $750 Costco card for free!” These posts often use urgency tactics (“Limited time offer!”) to pressure users into clicking quickly. The landing page reinforces the illusion with polished visuals and a countdown timer, suggesting the offer will expire soon.
Harvesting Personal Information
Users are prompted to enter their email address, name, and sometimes phone number under the guise of “verifying eligibility.” This data is either sold to third-party advertisers or used for phishing campaigns. Cybersecurity reports indicate that emails collected through such scams receive 300% more spam than average.
Redirecting to Affiliate Partners
After submitting details, users face a series of redirects to survey sites, subscription services, or app stores. Each click generates revenue for the scammers via pay-per-click (PPC) or cost-per-acquisition (CPA) agreements with affiliate networks.
For instance, completing a survey might earn the scammer $0.50–$2.00, while downloading an app could yield $3.00–$5.00. These small amounts add up quickly when thousands of users participate.
Ignoring Support Requests
Victims who realize the scam and seek assistance find no customer support options. The site lacks an email address, contact form, or live chat. This deliberate isolation prevents users from reporting issues or demanding refunds.
User Experiences: Stories of Deception and Loss
Victims of SampleGifted.com report consistent patterns of exploitation:
- Endless Redirects: One user described being shuffled through 12 different websites without ever receiving the gift card.
- Spam Overload: Many users reported a surge in phishing emails and robocalls within days of submitting their phone numbers.
- Hidden Charges: Some unknowingly subscribed to premium services during the “offer completion” phase, resulting in recurring charges on their credit cards.
A Reddit user shared, “I wasted two hours completing surveys, only to be told I needed to refer 15 friends. When I protested, the site froze.” Others discovered their emails leaked to dark web marketplaces, where personal data is sold for as little as $0.10 per entry.
Legal and Ethical Violations
SampleGifted.com violates multiple consumer protection laws, including:
- Deceptive Advertising: Promising a reward with no intent to deliver it breaches the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) guidelines.
- Data Privacy Laws: Collecting personal information without consent or secure storage violates regulations like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the EU.
- Trademark Infringement: Unauthorized use of Costco’s branding breaches intellectual property laws, punishable by fines or legal action.
The Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) has logged dozens of complaints about the site, though its anonymous operation complicates enforcement.
Final Thoughts
SampleGifted.com exemplifies the dangers of online “get-rich-quick” schemes. By recognizing brand impersonation, shady redirects, and data harvesting tactics, you can avoid falling victim. Always prioritize verified platforms and report suspicious activity to protect yourself and others.
Stay informed, stay skeptical, and remember: genuine rewards require genuine effort.
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Frequently asked Questions
What should I do if I entered my credit card information?
Immediately contact your bank or card issuer to dispute charges and request a new card. Monitor your account for suspicious activity.
Can my device get hacked by visiting the site?
While the site itself may not distribute malware, malicious redirects could lead to harmful downloads. Use antivirus software to scan your device.
Why do scammers use gift card offers?
Gift cards are untraceable and widely desired, making them effective bait. Scammers may also request gift cards as payment in other schemes.
Is my phone number safe if I submitted it?
Expect spam calls or phishing texts. Register your number on the National Do Not Call Registry and block suspicious contacts.
Are there legitimate alternatives for earning gift cards?
Yes. Platforms like Swagbucks and InboxDollars offer real rewards for surveys, but they require time and effort—not instant payouts.
