A new scam is making the rounds, preying on people’s desire to get free products from popular retailers like Aritzia. Scammers are posting ads on social media and sending emails and text messages promising the chance to become an Aritzia “Product Reviewer” in exchange for gift cards. But don’t fall for it – these scammers are only looking to steal your personal information and money.
This article will provide an in-depth look at how the Aritzia Product Reviewer scam works, how to spot the warning signs, and most importantly, how to avoid becoming a victim.
Aritzia Product Reviewer Scam Overview
The Aritzia Product Reviewer scam works like this: You come across an ad or message on social media, email, or text offering the opportunity to become a product tester and reviewer for Aritzia. In exchange, you are promised free products, discounts, or gift cards to the popular women’s fashion retailer.
The messages often say something like “Love Shopping at Aritzia? Become a Product Reviewer!” or “Get Paid to Test and Review Aritzia Products!”. They’ll encourage you to click a link or button to get started.
You are taken to a website that looks semi-official, using Aritzia’s logo and branding. The site will have a basic template, usually just a headline, message, and button to continue. The scam sites frequently use domains like ariztiareview.com, ariztiaproducttesters.com, officialaritziareviews.com, and other variations to sound official.
When you click through, you are redirected to a different website, often something generic like RewardsZoneUSA.com or ConsumerProductTestingPanel.com. These secondary sites claim you need to complete a certain number of “deals” or offers in order to qualify for the promised rewards from Aritzia.
The deals require you to complete surveys, download apps, sign up for free trials or subscriptions, or even make purchases in order to accrue points or complete the required number of offers. You may need to provide a lot of personal information like your name, email, phone number, address, etc.
Of course, after completing the tasks there is no Aritzia rewards pay out. The websites earn commissions and affiliate fees from the survey companies, marketers, and retailers. You are left with nothing except emails, calls, charges to your credit card, and junk software installed on your devices.
To avoid this scam, remember that Aritzia does not recruit random reviewers through third-party websites or unsolicited messages. Any offer like this should be considered highly suspicious. No legitimate company will ever ask you to complete offers, download software, or buy something in order to get a job testing products.
How the Aritzia Product Reviewer Scam Works
Here is a step-by-step look at how the Aritzia reviewer scam operates:
1. You See an Ad or Message Promoting the Opportunity
The scam campaign starts with an ad or unsolicited message. This may be:
A social media ad on Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok
A text message
An email
A pop up ad while browsing the web
The messages are designed to catch your attention with phrases like “Get Rewarded for Shopping at Aritzia!” or “Earn $500 Gift Card to Review Aritzia Products”.
The goal is to make you think you are being presented with a special opportunity to get free stuff and discounts from one of your favorite brands.
2. You Click On a Link to Get Started
When you click, you are taken to an intermediary website that continues the scam pitch. This site may have a URL like:
ariztiareviews.com
officialaritziaproducttesters.com
ariztiapanel.com
The site will use Aritzia’s logo, photos of their products, and their brand colors. This is to make it appear official and associated with the real company.
There will be a headline and short paragraph about becoming a product tester. Then a prominent button like “Apply Now” or “Get Started”.
3. You Provide Your Personal Information
When you click the apply or get started button, you are redirected to a different website. This is where the scam really begins.
The new website will have a generic name like RewardsZoneUSA.com, ConsumerProductTestingPanel.com, or ProductTesterJobs.com.
You’ll be asked to provide personal information like:
Full Name
Email Address
Phone Number
Home Address
Date of Birth
You may even need to complete a full registration requiring you to create a username and password for their “panel”.
4. You Need to Complete Offers to Qualify
After entering your personal info, you will be told that there are a certain number of “offers” or “deals” you must complete to become eligible for the Aritzia product tester position.
The number of required offers ranges from 10 to 50 typically.
These offers will be for things like:
Online surveys
Free trial subscriptions
Mobile app downloads
Credit card or loan applications
Retail purchases
Some may be for legitimate products and services, while others will be scams themselves. For example, a “free trial” that ends up charging you monthly unless you cancel.
5. Providing Payment Information
Many offers require you to provide credit card or other payment information to “verify your identity” or cover shipping and handling fees.
Don’t give this info, as it will often result in unexpected charges or very difficult cancellations when you want to end the free trials or subscriptions.
6. Downloading Software
Other offers will tell you to download free apps and browser extensions. These end up being junk programs, adware, or even malware.
Not only will they bug you with ads and slow down your device, but they can also spy on your activity and steal personal data.
7. No Reward Ever Materializes
After completing some number of offers, it quickly becomes clear that no free products, discounts, or gift cards will appear.
The original promise of rewards for reviewing Aritzia products was completely false. By this point, you have given away personal information and potentially exposed yourself to identity theft or financial fraud.
The various shady websites have already profited from your participation through affiliate fees, survey payments, free trial signups, and software downloads.
What to Do If You Are a Victim of the Scam
If you provided sensitive information or completed questionable offers related to this Aritzia product reviewer scam, here are important steps to take right away:
1. Contact Your Bank and Credit Card Companies
If you entered any financial information, call your bank and credit/debit card companies immediately. Report any suspicious charges or activity and have new cards issued if necessary.
2. Monitor Your Credit Reports
Since scammers may have your name, address, and other personal info, keep an eye out for any fraudulent accounts or activity by checking your credit reports frequently. Consider putting a credit freeze in place.
3. Change Any Passwords You Provided
Hopefully you didn’t reuse passwords across multiple accounts. If you did use an existing password, change it right away on any other accounts that used that password.
4. Run Antivirus Software
If you downloaded any software or browser extensions, scan your devices with a legitimate antivirus program to detect and remove malware or PUPs (potentially unwanted programs).
5. Unsubscribe From Any Services
Try to cancel any free trial subscriptions, monthly memberships, or other services you registered for. Document your attempts to cancel just in case you need to dispute any further billing.
6. Report Fake Websites
Look up the real website for each company and report the scam URLs you came across to help get them taken down. You can also report them to the FTC.
7. Learn From This Experience
While losing some personal info or money is unfortunate, try to take these lessons away:
Never provide sensitive info to unfamiliar sites
Don’t trust unsolicited messages offering deals
Read terms carefully before providing payment info
Avoid downloading software from sketchy sites
Too good to be true usually means it is!
Is Your Device Infected? Scan for Malware
If your computer or phone is slow, showing unwanted pop-ups, or acting strangely, malware could be the cause. Running a scan with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free is one of the most reliable ways to detect and remove harmful software. The free version can identify and clean common infections such as adware, browser hijackers, trojans, and other unwanted programs.
Malwarebytes works on Windows, Mac, and Android devices. Choose your operating system below and follow the steps to scan your device and remove any malware that might be slowing it down.
Malwarebytes for WindowsMalwarebytes for MacMalwarebytes for Android
Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Windows
Malwarebytes stands out as one of the leading and widely-used anti-malware solutions for Windows, and for good reason. It effectively eradicates various types of malware that other programs often overlook, all at no cost to you. When it comes to disinfecting an infected device, Malwarebytes has consistently been a free and indispensable tool in the battle against malware. We highly recommend it for maintaining a clean and secure system.
Download Malwarebytes
Download the latest version of Malwarebytes for Windows using the official link below. Malwarebytes will scan your computer and remove adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious software for free.
(The above link will open a new page from where you can download Malwarebytes)
Install Malwarebytes
After the download is complete, locate the MBSetup file, typically found in your Downloads folder. Double-click on the MBSetup file to begin the installation of Malwarebytes on your computer. If a User Account Control pop-up appears, click “Yes” to continue the Malwarebytes installation.
Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes
When the Malwarebytes installation begins, the setup wizard will guide you through the process.
You’ll first be prompted to choose the type of computer you’re installing the program on—select either “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer” as appropriate, then click on Next.
Malwarebytes will now begin the installation process on your device.
When the Malwarebytes installation is complete, the program will automatically open to the “Welcome to Malwarebytes” screen.
On the final screen, simply click on the Open Malwarebytes option to start the program.
Enable “Rootkit scanning”.
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware will now start, and you will see the main screen as shown below. To maximize Malwarebytes’ ability to detect malware and unwanted programs, we need to enable rootkit scanning. Click on the “Settings” gear icon located on the left of the screen to access the general settings section.
In the settings menu, enable the “Scan for rootkits” option by clicking the toggle switch until it turns blue.
Now that you have enabled rootkit scanning, click on the “Dashboard” button in the left pane to get back to the main screen.
Perform a Scan with Malwarebytes.
To start a scan, click the Scan button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its antivirus database and begin scanning your computer for malicious programs.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will now scan your computer for browser hijackers and other malicious programs. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Quarantine detected malware
Once the Malwarebytes scan is complete, it will display a list of detected malware, adware, and potentially unwanted programs. To effectively remove these threats, click the “Quarantine” button.
Malwarebytes will now delete all of the files and registry keys and add them to the program’s quarantine.
Restart your computer.
When removing files, Malwarebytes may require a reboot to fully eliminate some threats. If you see a message indicating that a reboot is needed, please allow it. Once your computer has restarted and you are logged back in, you can continue with the remaining steps.
Once the scan completes, remove all detected threats. Your Windows computer should now be clean and running smoothly again, free of trojans, adware, and other malware.
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 an on-demand scanner that can destroy many types of malware that other software tends to miss without costing you absolutely anything. When it comes to cleaning up an infected device, Malwarebytes has always been free, and we recommend it as an essential tool in the fight against malware.
Download Malwarebytes for Mac.
You can download Malwarebytes for Mac by clicking the link below.
When Malwarebytes has finished downloading, double-click on the setup file to install Malwarebytes on your computer. In most cases, downloaded files are saved to the Downloads folder.
Follow the on-screen prompts to install Malwarebytes.
When the Malwarebytes installation begins, you will see the Malwarebytes for Mac Installer which will guide you through the installation process. Click “Continue“, then keep following the prompts to continue with the installation process.
When your Malwarebytes installation completes, the program opens to the Welcome to Malwarebytes screen. Click the “Get started” button.
Select “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer”.
The Malwarebytes Welcome screen will first ask you what type of computer are you installing this program, click either Personal Computer or Work Computer.
Click on “Scan”.
To scan your computer with Malwarebytes, click on the “Scan” button. Malwarebytes for Mac will automatically update the antivirus database and start scanning your computer for malware.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will scan your computer for adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious programs. 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 “Quarantine”.
When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes has detected. To remove the malware that Malwarebytes has found, click on the “Quarantine” button.
Restart computer.
Malwarebytes will now remove all the malicious files that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your computer.
After scanning, delete any detected threats. Your Mac should now be free from adware, unwanted 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.
When the scan is finished, remove all detected threats. Your Android phone should now be free of malicious apps, adware, and unwanted 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.
After cleaning your device, it’s important to protect it from future infections and annoying pop-ups. We recommend installing an ad blocker such as AdGuard. AdGuard blocks malicious ads, prevents phishing attempts, and stops dangerous redirects, helping you stay safe while browsing online.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Aritzia Product Reviewer Scam
1. How does the Aritzia product reviewer scam work?
The scam begins with an ad or message on social media, email, or text. It offers the chance to test and review products for Aritzia in exchange for rewards like gift cards. Those who click on the links are taken to an intermediary website that looks semi-official. You are prompted to provide personal information and redirected to a generic third-party website. There you are told to complete 10-50 “offers” like surveys, downloads, trials, etc. to qualify for rewards. Of course, the rewards never come after completing the offers. The sites profit from commissions and upsells while obtaining your data.
2. What are some common website names used in this scam?
The intermediary sites often use domain names like ariztiareviews.com, officialaritziaproducttesters.com, ariztiapanel.com, and other variations. The second redirect sites have generic names like RewardsZoneUSA.com, ConsumerProductTestingPanel.com, ProductTesterJobs.com, etc.
3. What warning signs indicate this is a scam?
Unsolicited messages, being redirected multiple times, pressure to complete “offers”, requests for sensitive personal/financial details, and promises of rewards that seem too good to be true are clear warning signs.
4. Does Aritzia really recruit random product testers?
No, Aritzia does not recruit random reviewers or testers through third-party websites or unsolicited messages. Any “opportunity” like this should be considered extremely suspicious.
5. What personal information do these scammers obtain?
Scammers try to get your full name, email address, phone number, home address, date of birth, payment information, and login credentials. This can enable identity theft.
6. What are some potential risks of providing information or completing offers?
Risks include identity theft, financial fraud, unexpected subscription charges, and malware/virus installation on your devices from required downloads.
7. What should I do if I already provided information or did offers?
Contact banks/credit cards about any suspicious charges or activity
Monitor your credit reports frequently
Change any passwords you reused on other accounts
Run antivirus software and scan all devices used
Try to cancel any subscriptions or trials signed up for
8. How can I report fake sites or recover lost money?
Report fake sites used in the scam to the real Aritzia, FTC, BBB, IC3.gov, social networks, etc. You can try disputing charges with your bank or credit card company as unauthorized. File complaints regarding the scam websites.
9. How can I avoid falling for this scam in the future?
Be wary of unsolicited job offers, ignore ads/messages offering deals that seem too good to be true, read all terms carefully before providing payment information, don’t give sensitive details to unfamiliar sites, and thoroughly verify employers.
10. Are there real ways to get paid for product testing?
Yes, but opportunities come directly from the brand requiring an application, not via third-parties. Examples include focus groups, in-store studies, and direct tester programs that clearly explain compensation upfront.
Hopefully this FAQ helps explain exactly how the Aritzia reviewer scam operates, key red flags to watch for, and most importantly how to avoid becoming a victim yourself. Don’t provide personal information or payment details unless 100% certain of the source. And never complete “offers” in exchange for promised rewards. Stay vigilant!
The Bottom Line
The supposed Aritzia product reviewer opportunity is a complete scam designed to steal people’s personal information and money. No matter how convincing the websites and messages may seem, there are no legitimate rewards or jobs being offered.
These scammers are professionals at manipulation, preying on people’s desire for shortcuts and getting something for nothing. But any unsolicited offer or job opportunity that seems too good to be true almost always is.
The real goal is to gather data, install malware, sign you up for unwanted services, or directly steal your identity and funds. No legitimate retailer or employer will ever require upfront fees, offers, or downloads in exchange for a job.
Brands like Aritzia have formal product tester programs run internally or by marketing research firms. Participants are screened and hired directly, not random social media users filling out questionable third-party forms.
Should an opportunity present itself, thoroughly scrutinize the source, check for warning signs, and confirm details directly with the company before providing any sensitive information or payment. And never trust a random website claiming to offer easy rewards, discounts, or jobs from major brands.
Staying vigilant and skeptical is the best way to avoid falling victim to scams like the fake Aritzia reviewer trick. But even security-conscious people can slip up, so learning how these cons operate makes you better prepared if an offer ever seems legitimate but has concerning red flags.
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.
