Have you received a text message or online offer promising easy money by wrapping your car with a Monster Energy drink advertisement? Lured by the prospect of earning up to $800 a week simply by driving your vehicle, many individuals are intrigued by what seems like a straightforward income opportunity. One reader, Wendy L., was excited about such an offer, thinking it was a legitimate marketing strategy, similar to Red Bull’s adventurous campaigns. The concept involves turning your car into a “mobile billboard” with a Monster Energy banner.
Unfortunately, if you’ve encountered such an offer, it’s crucial to know that Monster Energy does not have a car wrap program. A company spokesperson confirmed to the Los Angeles Times that these offers are not from them but are actually part of a widespread scam. This type of fraud is a variation of the fake check scam, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) has received over 700 reports about similar car wrap scams in the last five years alone.
How the Monster Energy Car Wrap Scam Works
These deceptive schemes typically unfold in a similar manner. After expressing interest, victims receive a check, often for a significantly larger amount than initially promised. They are then instructed to deposit this check and send a portion of the money to a separate entity, supposedly to cover the costs of the car wrap materials and installation. Unsuspecting participants follow these instructions, only to discover later that the initial check bounces, leaving them financially liable for the money they sent to the scammers.
The Los Angeles Times highlighted that these scams frequently prey on individuals in vulnerable situations, such as those facing substantial medical expenses. In Wendy’s case, she experienced a loss of over $100 after the fraudulent check bounced. Online forums and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) complaint pages are filled with similar stories dating back to 2016, indicating a persistent and widespread issue. Scammers are also known to impersonate other well-known brands like Marlboro and Purell to further deceive potential victims.
Monster Energy’s Response and Official Stance
Monster Energy has acknowledged the ongoing scam and is cooperating with authorities to investigate these fraudulent activities. As the company spokeswoman stated to the LA Times, “This is something that’s been going on for a while.” However, the perpetrators behind this scheme remain unidentified.
The FTC strongly advises consumers to exercise caution regarding any “get-rich-quick” opportunities. Specifically, they warn: If you receive a check and are asked to send money back, it’s a scam. This simple rule of thumb can help protect you from falling victim to car wrap scams and other similar fraudulent schemes.
To stay informed about car-related scams and protect yourself from fraud, it’s essential to be vigilant and skeptical of unsolicited offers that seem too good to be true. Always verify the legitimacy of such programs directly with the company purportedly involved, especially when financial transactions are requested upfront.
