Don’t Fall for the FAKE $8000 Bi-Lo Christmas Gift Card Scam
Written by: Thomas Orsolya
Published on:
The holidays are meant to be filled with joy, but scammers see this as the perfect time to take advantage of people’s generosity and desire to win prizes. One prevalent scam making its way across social media this season claims to offer a Bi-Lo gift card worth $8000. However, these online ads and promotions are completely fake, designed to steal money and personal information.
In this article, we will break down exactly how the Bi-Lo gift card scam works, provide tips to identify it, and give advice if you unfortunately fell victim. Stay vigilant this holiday season so you can spot and avoid this fraudulent scheme.
Overview of the Scam
Here is hoThe Bi-Lo gift card scam is a deceptive technique used by scammers to defraud social media users during the holiday season. This online con takes advantage of people’s desire for free giveaways and discounts by promoting fake $8000 gift card offers attributed to the southeastern supermarket chain.
Here is how the fraudulent Bi-Lo gift card promotion typically works:
First, sponsored social media ads are placed on platforms like Facebook and Instagram announcing a Bi-Lo gift card worth $8000 up for grabs. Using Bi-Lo’s official branding and logos, the ads seem credible and entice users to click to claim the prize.
After clicking the ad, victims are redirected to elaborate fake news websites impersonating media brands like CNN, NBC, and Food Network. These pages feature fictional stories of individuals who recently won the $8000 Bi-Lo card, including specific details to lend legitimacy.
At the end of the phony articles, prominent “Claim My Offer” buttons urge readers to take action to redeem their own Bi-Lo gift card. When clicked, the buttons lead to sketchy third-party websites unaffiliated with Bi-Lo.
On these external sites, users are prompted to fill out forms with personal information like their name, address, contact details, and credit card number, all under the guise of securing the advertised $8000 prize.
In reality, victims who submit their payment information are automatically signed up for recurring monthly subscription fees to services they did not want or agree to. Monthly charges of $10 to $40 appear from shady vendors billing for mystery shopping memberships, ebooks, gaming apps, adult content, and other unnecessary products.
Meanwhile, users never receive any Bi-Lo gift card or monetary reward. The entire promotion was an elaborate hoax designed to collect user data and credit card numbers to defraud victims under the guise of a free holiday giveaway.
Let’s explore this holiday scam targeting Bi-Lo shoppers more in depth.
How the Bi-Lo Gift Card Scam Works Step-by-Step
By understanding each step of the Bi-Lo gift card scam, you can better identify red flags to avoid being defrauded this holiday season.
1. Fake Social Media Ads Promising a $8000 Card
The scam begins with sponsored social media ads offering a Bi-Lo gift card worth $8000. Using Bi-Lo’s logos and brand imagery, the promotions appear credible. Headlines entice users to claim the prize:
“Congrats! $8000 Bi-Lo Card Could Be Yours!”
“Click Here to Claim Your $8000 Bi-Lo Gift Card!”
“Bi-Lo Awards $8000 Gift Cards to Lucky Customers – Get Yours Now!”
The ads target Bi-Lo shoppers with interests and demographics associated with the supermarket chain.
2. Clicking the Ad Goes to Fake News Websites
When users click on the social media ads, they are redirected to convincing fake news websites impersonating trusted brands. For example, a site may pretend to be “CNN Business” or “Food Network News” with headlines like:
“South Carolina Man Wins $8000 Bi-Lo Card – You Can Too!”
“Bi-Lo Teams Up with NBC to Give Away $8000 Gift Cards”
These pages feature fake stories about individuals winning the card, including details like their name, age, town, and backstory. This lends credibility to the scam.
3. Prompts to “Claim Your Offer”
At the end of the fraudulent news articles, prominent buttons entice users to take action to claim the $8000 Bi-Lo prize for themselves. The buttons urge readers to “Claim My Offer” or “Click Here to Redeem Gift Card.”
When clicked, the buttons redirect users away from the fake news sites to external domains run by scammers.
4. Fake Registration Forms Request Personal Details
On the scam sites, users are prompted to fill out online registration forms with their personal and contact information in order to “claim” their Bi-Lo gift card. Details requested include full name, home address, phone number, email address, and credit card information.
Of course, the promised $8000 prize does not exist. But this provides scammers the data needed to enroll victims in unwanted subscription services.
5. Credit Cards Billed for Unwanted Subscriptions
After submitting payment information, victims find their cards automatically billed $10 to $40 monthly for services they never signed up for or wanted. These can include things like:
Mystery shopping clubs
Discount ebook and magazine subscriptions
Adult content sites
Gaming apps and memberships
Other unnecessary products and services
Meanwhile, users never receive any Bi-Lo gift card or prize. The entire promotion was fake.
What to Do If You Fell for the Bi-Lo Gift Card Scam
If you suspect you were tricked by the Bi-Lo gift card con, take these steps to halt further financial loss and recover lost funds:
Act Quickly to Stop Recurring Charges
Call your credit card company immediately to report the charges as fraudulent. Cancel your compromised card and request a new one.
Identify any scam third-party sites that billed you. Visit them to cancel unwanted subscriptions if possible.
Monitor your credit reports for any signs of identity theft. Change passwords on breached accounts.
Dispute Fraudulent Transactions
Formally dispute the bogus charges with your credit card provider and ask to be reimbursed. Provide transaction dates and details.
Under consumer protection policies, card issuers will likely refund disputed amounts after investigating. Follow up if claims are initially rejected.
Avoid Paying Recovery Scams
Ignore “customer service” numbers promising to refund your money for an upfront fee. Only call verified numbers.
Do not pay anyone requesting gift cards or other unusual payment methods. These are scammers.
Warn Others About This Scam
Share your experience to help prevent others from falling victim too. Report fake ads, sites and accounts when you come across them.
Stay vigilant this holiday season and remember – if an online offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. Trust your instincts to protect yourself from scams.
Is Your Device Infected? Run a Free Malware Scan
Slow performance, constant pop-ups, or strange behavior? These are classic signs of a malware infection. The fastest way to find out is to scan your device with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free — one of the most trusted malware removal tools available.
The free version detects and removes the most common threats, including:
Adware — the cause of those annoying pop-ups
Browser hijackers — unwanted redirects and changed homepages
Trojans and spyware — hidden programs stealing your data
Potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) — software you never asked for
👉 Select your device below — Windows, Mac, or Android — then follow the simple steps to download Malwarebytes, scan your system, and remove any threats it finds. The whole process takes about 5 minutes.
Malwarebytes for WindowsMalwarebytes for MacMalwarebytes for Android
Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Windows
Malwarebytes is one of the most popular and trusted anti-malware tools for Windows — and it’s completely free for removing infections. It catches threats that many antivirus programs miss, including adware, browser hijackers, and trojans. Follow the steps below to scan and clean your PC in just a few minutes.
Download Malwarebytes
Click the button below to download the latest version of Malwarebytes for Windows from the official source. The free version is all you need — it will scan your computer and remove adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious software at no cost.
(The link opens in a new page where your download will start)
Install Malwarebytes
When the download finishes, open your Downloads folder and double-click the MBSetup file. If Windows shows a User Account Control pop-up, click “Yes” to allow the installation.
Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes
The setup wizard will walk you through a few quick screens:
Choose where you’re installing the program — “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer” — then click Next.
Malwarebytes will now install on your device. This usually takes under a minute.
When installation is complete, the “Welcome to Malwarebytes” screen will open automatically.
On the final screen, click Open Malwarebytes to launch the program.
Enable “Scan for Rootkits”
Before scanning, turn on rootkit detection so Malwarebytes can find even the most hidden threats. Click the Settings gear icon on the left side of the screen.
In the settings menu, find “Scan for rootkits” and click the toggle so it turns blue.
Done? Click “Dashboard” in the left pane to return to the main screen.
Start the Scan
Click the blue Scan button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its virus database and start checking your computer for malware.
Wait for the Scan to Finish
The scan checks your entire system for browser hijackers and other malicious programs, so it can take several minutes. Feel free to do something else — just check back occasionally to see the progress.
Quarantine the Detected Threats
When the scan is done, you’ll see a list of everything Malwarebytes found — malware, adware, and potentially unwanted programs. Click the “Quarantine” button to remove all of them at once.
Malwarebytes will now remove the malicious files and registry entries and move them safely into quarantine.
Restart Your Computer
Some threats can only be fully removed after a reboot. If Malwarebytes asks you to restart, click Yes. Once you’re logged back in, your PC is clean and you can continue with the next steps in this guide.
When the scan finishes, click Quarantine to remove everything Malwarebytes found. That’s it — your Windows PC is now clean of trojans, adware, and other malware, and should be back to running smoothly.
If your current antivirus allowed this malicious program on your computer, you may want to consider purchasing Malwarebytes Premium to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your computer after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:
Malwarebytes for Mac is a free on-demand scanner that removes the malware other security software tends to miss — adware, browser hijackers, and unwanted programs included. Cleaning an infected Mac with Malwarebytes has always been completely free, and it’s our go-to recommendation. Follow the steps below to scan and clean your Mac in just a few minutes.
Download Malwarebytes for Mac
Click the button below to download the latest version of Malwarebytes for Mac.
When the download finishes, open your Downloads folder and double-click the setup file to begin the installation.
Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes
The Malwarebytes for Mac Installer will guide you through a few quick screens. Click “Continue” and keep following the prompts until the installation completes.
When the installation is complete, Malwarebytes opens to the Welcome to Malwarebytes screen. Click “Get started“.
Select “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer”
Malwarebytes will ask what type of computer you’re installing it on. Click either Personal Computer or Work Computer, whichever applies.
Start the Scan
Click the “Scan” button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its detection database and begin checking your Mac for malware.
Wait for the Scan to Finish
Malwarebytes will scan your Mac for adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious programs. This can take a few minutes, so feel free to do something else — just check back occasionally to see the progress.
Quarantine the Detected Threats
When the scan is done, you’ll see a list of everything Malwarebytes found. Click the “Quarantine” button to remove all the threats at once.
Restart Your Mac
Malwarebytes will now remove all the malicious files it found. Some threats can only be fully removed after a reboot — if Malwarebytes asks you to restart, allow it. Once you’re logged back in, your Mac is clean.
Once the scan is done, remove every threat it detected. Your Mac is now free of adware, rogue browser extensions, and other potentially harmful software.
If your current antivirus allowed a malicious program on your computer, you might want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still experiencing problems while trying to remove a malicious program from your computer, please ask for help in our Mac Malware Removal Help & Support forum.
Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Android
Malwarebytes for Android automatically detects and removes dangerous threats like malware and ransomware so you don’t have to worry about your most-used device being compromised. Aggressive detection of adware and potentially unwanted programs keeps your Android phone or tablet running smooth.
Download Malwarebytes for Android.
You can download Malwarebytes for Android by clicking the link below.
In the Google Play Store, tap “Install” to install Malwarebytes for Android on your device.
When the installation process has finished, tap “Open” to begin using Malwarebytes for Android. You can also open Malwarebytes by tapping on its icon in your phone menu or home screen.
Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup process
When Malwarebytes will open, you will see the Malwarebytes Setup Wizard which will guide you through a series of permissions and other setup options. This is the first of two screens that explain the difference between the Premium and Free versions. Swipe this screen to continue. Tap on “Got it” to proceed to the next step. Malwarebytes for Android will now ask for a set of permissions that are required to scan your device and protect it from malware. Tap on “Give permission” to continue. Tap on “Allow” to permit Malwarebytes to access the files on your phone.
Update database and run a scan with Malwarebytes for Android
You will now be prompted to update the Malwarebytes database and run a full system scan.
Click on “Update database” to update the Malwarebytes for Android definitions to the latest version, then click on “Run full scan” to perform a system scan.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will now start scanning your phone for adware and other malicious apps. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Click on “Remove Selected”.
When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes for Android has detected. To remove the malicious apps that Malwarebytes has found, tap on the “Remove Selected” button.
Restart your phone.
Malwarebytes for Android will now remove all the malicious apps that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your device.
After the scan, tap Remove Selected to delete all detected threats. Your Android phone is now clean — no more malicious apps, adware, or browser redirects.
If your current antivirus allowed a malicious app on your phone, you may want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your phone after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:
Restore your phone to factory settings by going to Settings > General management > Reset > Factory data reset.
Now that your device is clean, keep it that way. Most infections start with a malicious ad or a fake download button — so blocking them at the source is your best defense.
We recommend AdGuard, which blocks malicious ads, phishing pages, and dangerous redirects before they can reach you.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Bi-Lo $8000 Gift Card Scam
1. How does the Bi-Lo gift card scam work?
The scam begins with fake social media ads offering a $8000 Bi-Lo gift card. Clicking the ad goes to a fraudulent news site about winners. You are prompted to “Claim Your Offer” which leads to a third-party site asking for personal and payment info. This signs you up for unwanted monthly subscriptions, charging your card without consent. No gift card is received.
2. What platforms are the scam ads found on?
The deceptive promotions are placed on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and other platforms. They target Bi-Lo shoppers in the southeastern US where the supermarket chain operates.
3. What do the fake news websites look like?
The scam news pages impersonate trusted media brands like CNN, NBC, and Food Network. They have fake articles about individuals winning $8000 Bi-Lo gift cards to seem credible.
4. What information is requested on the third-party sites?
The external scam websites ask for your full name, address, phone, email, and credit card details, claiming it is to process your Bi-Lo prize. In reality, it only collects data and pays for unwanted subscriptions.
5. What types of charges appear on victims’ cards?
After entering payment information, monthly fees of $10 – $40 show up for mystery shopping services, ebooks, gaming apps, adult sites, and other useless subscriptions victims never agreed to.
6. How can victims cancel recurring charges and recover lost money?
Contact your card company immediately to dispute all fraudulent charges. Cancel your compromised card and monitor statements. Check credit reports for any signs of identity theft from the breach.
7. How can you avoid Bi-Lo gift card scams in the future?
Be suspicious of prize offers requiring upfront payments or urgent action. Verify deals directly with Bi-Lo before providing any personal or financial details. Avoid entering info on unfamiliar third-party websites.
8. Are there other major retailers used in similar gift card scams?
Yes, scammers also impersonate major chains like Walmart, Target, Amazon, Lowe’s, Home Depot, and Kroger in free gift card scams. Always confirm directly with the company if an offer seems suspicious before taking action.
The Bottom Line
The Bi-Lo $8000 gift card giveaway scam takes advantage of people’s trust, desire for deals, and generosity during the holidays. But understanding how this bait-and-switch fraud works allows consumers to spot red flags and avoid handing over their money or personal information.
When promotions require upfront fees, taxes, or urgent action, exercise caution. Only enter payment details on trusted sites, and verify questionable offers directly with the named company. Protect yourself from scams this holiday season with awareness and smart practices.
10 Rules to Avoid Online Scams
Here are 10 practical safety rules to help you avoid malware, online shopping scams, crypto scams, and other online fraud. Each tip includes a quick “if you already got hit” action.
Stop and verify before you click, log in, download, or pay.
Most scams win by creating urgency. Verify using a trusted method: type the website address yourself, use the official app, or call a known number (not the one in the message).
If you already clicked: close the page, do not enter passwords, and run a malware scan.
Keep your operating system, browser, and apps updated.
Updates patch security holes used by malware and malicious ads. Turn on automatic updates where possible.
If you saw a scary “update now” pop-up: close it and update only through your device settings or the official app store.
Use layered protection: antivirus plus an ad blocker.
Antivirus helps block malware. An ad blocker reduces scam redirects, phishing pages, and malvertising.
If your browser is acting weird: remove unknown extensions, reset the browser, then run a full scan.
Install apps, software, and extensions only from official sources.
Avoid cracked software, “keygens,” and random downloads. During installs, choose Custom/Advanced and decline bundled offers you do not recognize.
If you already installed something suspicious: uninstall it, restart, and scan again.
Treat links and attachments as untrusted by default.
Phishing often impersonates delivery services, banks, and popular brands. If it is unexpected, do not open attachments or log in through the message.
If you entered credentials: change the password immediately and enable 2FA.
Shop safely: research the store, then pay with protection.
Be cautious with brand-new stores, “closing sale” stories, and prices that make no sense. Prefer credit cards or PayPal for dispute options. Avoid wire transfers, gift cards, and crypto payments.
If you already paid: contact your card issuer or PayPal quickly to dispute the transaction.
Crypto rule: never pay a “fee” to withdraw or recover money.
Common patterns include fake profits, then “tax,” “gas,” or “verification” fees. Another is a “recovery agent” who demands upfront crypto.
If you already sent crypto: stop paying, save evidence (wallet addresses, TXIDs, chats), and report the scam to the platform used.
Secure your accounts with unique passwords and 2FA (start with email).
Use a password manager and unique passwords for every account. Enable 2FA using an authenticator app when possible.
If you suspect an account takeover: change passwords, sign out of all devices, and review recent logins and recovery settings.
Back up important files and keep one backup offline.
Backups protect you from ransomware and device failure. Keep at least one backup on an external drive that is not always connected.
If you suspect infection: do not connect backup drives until the system is clean.
If you think you are a victim: stop losses, document evidence, and escalate fast.
Move quickly. Speed matters for disputes, account recovery, and limiting damage.
Stop payments and contact: do not send more money or respond to the scammer.
Call your bank or card issuer: block transactions, replace the card if needed, and start a dispute or chargeback.
Secure your email first: change the email password, enable 2FA, and remove unfamiliar recovery options.
Secure other accounts: change passwords, enable 2FA, and log out of all sessions.
Scan your device: remove suspicious apps or extensions, then run a full malware scan.
Save evidence: screenshots, emails, order pages, tracking pages, wallet addresses, TXIDs, and chat logs.
Report it: to the payment provider, marketplace, social platform, exchange, or wallet service involved.
These rules are intentionally simple. Most online losses happen when decisions are rushed. Slow down, verify independently, and use payment methods and account controls that give you recourse.
Thomas is an expert at uncovering scams and providing in-depth reporting on cyber threats and online fraud. As an editor, he is dedicated to keeping readers informed on the latest developments in cybersecurity and tech.
