Although IKEA is a mecca for affordable furniture and home accessories, it’s also a popular target for scammers.
Here’s a complete list of the scams to be aware of when shopping at IKEA, so you can stay safe and focus on better things like getting the best deals!
IKEA Scams In 2024
Criminals target IKEA shoppers with scams increasingly in 2024. Many use calls, emails, and text messages to lead shoppers to fake websites that claim their private information. To avoid scams at IKEA, be cautious of any unsolicited emails or messages, and never give out your personal information to someone you don’t know.
Read on for a complete list of scams to be aware of when shopping at IKEA and tips to avoid them!
1. Fake IKEA Promotions
IKEA is well-known for its affordable prices, so it’s no surprise that scammers try to take advantage of this by offering fake promotions.
Therefore, be wary of any emails or social media posts promising significant discounts or free items from IKEA. Essentially, unless you’re 100% sure they’re legitimate, it’s best to steer clear.
2. Phishing Scams
Phishing scams are common online, and IKEA has been targeted in the past.
Usually, these scams involve someone posing as an IKEA representative and trying to get personal information like your credit card number or social security number.
Therefore, if you receive an unsolicited email or message from someone claiming to be from IKEA, do not reply – simply delete it.
3. Vishing Scams
Instead of happening online like phishing, vishing scams occur over the phone. Again, someone will pose as an IKEA representative and try to get personal information from you.
Therefore, if you receive a suspicious call from someone claiming to be from IKEA, hang up immediately. Most importantly, do not give them any information.
4. Smishing Scams
Similarly, smishing scams are a text message-based version of phishing.
With smishing, shoppers may receive a text message from an unknown number that looks like it’s from IKEA, asking them to click on a link or reply with personal information.
As with phishing and vishing, do not respond to these messages – simply delete them.
5. IKEA Delivery Scams
When shopping at IKEA, you can have your purchases delivered to your home.
However, scammers have been known to pose as IKEA delivery drivers in order to gain entry to people’s homes.
If someone claiming to be an IKEA delivery driver shows up at your door without an appointment, do not let them in. Instead, call IKEA customer service to verify their identity.
6. IKEA Assembly Scams
Another common scam involving IKEA deliveries is assembly scams. In these scams, someone will offer to assemble your IKEA furniture for you – for a fee, of course.
Be wary of anyone offering this service, as it’s likely a scam.
Furthermore, IKEA furniture is designed to be easy to assemble, so generally, there’s no need to pay someone else to do it for you.
7. IKEA Returns Scams
When returning an item to IKEA, you may be asked to provide your personal information, such as your social security number or driver’s license number.
However, be cautious of giving out this information, especially online or over the phone, as it could be used for identity theft.
Instead, if you’re not comfortable providing this information, call IKEA and ask to speak to a manager.
8. IKEA Gift Card Scams
Although they can happen at any time, gift card scams are most common during the holidays.
In these scams, someone will promise a free IKEA gift card in exchange for your personal information.
As always, be wary of anyone asking for your personal information – unless you’re absolutely sure they’re legitimate, it’s best to steer clear.
What Can Victims fF IKEA Scams Do?
If you think you’ve been the victim of an IKEA scam, there are a few things you can do.
First, contact IKEA customer service and file a complaint, and an employee may be able to help resolve the issue or put you in touch with someone who can.
In addition, you should contact your local Better Business Bureau to file a complaint and see if there have been any other complaints about the company or individual involved in the scam.
Lastly, you can file a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
In short, the FTC collects complaints about companies and individuals using deception, fraud, or other unfair practices to harm consumers.
By filing a report, you can help them investigate and take action against these scammers.
How Can I Avoid IKEA Scams?
Overall, the best way to avoid IKEA scams is to be aware of them.
Also, keep in mind that IKEA will never ask for personal information like your social security number or credit card number via text or email.
Therefore, if you’re ever asked for this information, it’s a red flag that you’re being scammed.
When shopping at IKEA – or any other store – be sure to pay attention to your surroundings and keep your belongings close to you, which will help deter pickpockets and thieves.
Finally, if you receive a suspicious call, email, or text message from someone claiming to be from IKEA, do not reply.
To know more, you can also read our posts on IKEA headquarters, IKEA complaints, and IKEA competitors.
Conclusion
IKEA scams are becoming increasingly common, so it’s essential to be aware of them. Following the tips in this article can help protect yourself from these scams.
Additionally, if you ever think you’ve been the victim of an IKEA scam, be sure to contact IKEA customer service and file a complaint.
