Publix Warns Customers of Bogus $100 Off Coupon

Publix super markets are warning customers of a fake coupon that’s been floating around social media.

The coupon, which looks authentic, promises $100 off for a purchase of $120 or more.

Publix, which operates hundreds of stores in Georgia, including in the Golden Park Village in Buford, posted the following on Facebook:

“There is a fraudulent Publix coupon circulating on social media that states “$100 off your purchase of $120 or more”. This is not supported by Publix and this coupon is not valid at any of our locations. We recommend not participating in the promotion or providing your personal information. Thank you for your patience as we investigate this situation.”

According to Snopes.com, the coupon is similar to one for ALDI stores that also was recently circulated on social media.

The scam asks a shopper to complete a three-step survey, but once the steps are completed, they’re not given a coupon code, but rather are asked for a variety of personal info, Snopes reported. Prospective victims are asked to sign up for a credit card or a subsciption program to get free gift cards.

The Better Business Bureau offers the follow ways to spot a customer survey scam:

• Don’t believe what you see. It’s easy to steal the colors, logos and header of an established organization. Scammers can also make links look like they lead to legitimate websites and emails appear to come from a different sender.
• Legitimate businesses do not ask for credit card numbers or banking information on customer surveys. If they do ask for personal information, like an address or email, be sure there’s a link to their privacy policy.
• When in doubt, do a quick web search. If the survey is a scam, you may find alerts or complaints from other consumers. The organization’s real website may have further information.
• Watch out for a reward that’s too good to be true. If the survey is real, you may be entered in a drawing to win a gift card or receive a small discount off your next purchase. Few businesses can afford to give away $50 gift cards for completing a few questions.

Photo: Snopes.com