Beware the Lululemon Product Reviewer Scam: What To Know
Written by: Stelian Pilici
Published on:
Lululemon is a popular athletic apparel company known for its quality yoga pants and loyal customer base. However, scammers are leveraging Lululemon’s brand appeal to lure victims into a fake product reviewer program scam.
Fraudsters create convincing websites promoting a non-existent “Lululemon Product Reviewer Program” that supposedly rewards participants with a $750 gift card. But it’s just a ruse to harvest personal information and steal money.
This in-depth article will uncover how this insidious scam works, identify red flags to watch for, and provide tips to avoid getting swindled.
This article contains:
Overview of the Lululemon Product Reviewer Scam
This scam operates by enticing victims with the chance to review Lululemon products and earn a $750 gift card in return. Scammers build professional-looking websites advertising this fictitious opportunity, along with fake enrollment forms promising rewards upon completion.
However, there is no actual product reviewer program or gift cards. The scammers’ true intent is to collect sensitive personal data for identity theft, siphon money through recurring subscription fees, and potentially access devices to install malware.
The fraudsters combine the lure of free Lululemon gear with the legitimacy of being a “reviewer” to trick eager victims. But handing over information under this guise only leads to compromised accounts, financial theft, and wasted money on non-existent rewards.
How the Scammers Carry Out This Con
Here are the illicit strategies scammers employ for this product reviewer scam:
Fake websites – Scammers design sophisticated sites mimicking a real Lululemon product tester program, using the company’s images and branding.
Social media ads – Promoted posts on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok drive traffic to the fraudulent reviewer enrollment pages.
Pop-up ads – Deceptive pop-up ads also direct users to the phony Lululemon reviewer platforms.
Spam emails – Phishing emails pretend to be from Lululemon Support offering the chance to review products.
Rewards fraud – The scam claims users must complete “recommended deals” like subscriptions or downloads to earn the $750 gift card.
Malware distribution – Downloaded apps or files contain malware to infect users’ devices.
Personal data harvesting – Scammers steal info through questionnaires for identity theft and account compromise.
The scam evolves but continues deceiving eager victims with the lure of free Lululemon gear and gift cards. But in reality, engagement only leads to loss and fraud.
Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Lululemon Reviewer Scam
Here is a walkthrough of how the predatory Lululemon reviewer con unfolds at each step:
Step 1: Encountering a Fake Reviewer Program Ad
The scam starts with the victim coming across a promotional post, email, pop-up, or website advertising the opportunity to become a product reviewer for Lululemon and get paid in gift cards.
The ads and messages appear credible with eye-catching images of Lululemon clothes and promises of rewarding reviewers. There may be false testimonials and urgent calls to enroll before slots fill up.
Step 2: Signing Up for the Fake Program
Deceived by the ads, victims click the link to sign up as a reviewer. They are taken to slick websites with Lululemon branding and sections to enter their name, email, phone number, birth date, physical address, and other personal details.
The data harvesting forms are designed to look like legitimate new account registration pages. But in reality, it’s just a scam to steal personal information.
Step 3: Completing Required Offers or Downloads
After submitting their sensitive data, victims are prompted to complete a few “recommended deals” or downloads to finish enrolling in the fake reviewer program.
This usually requires signing up for subscription trial offers, taking online surveys, or downloading third-party apps. The downloads may contain malware.
Step 4: No Payment and Ongoing Financial Fraud
Unfortunately, victims complete these tasks but never get paid the promised $750 Lululemon gift cards. Instead, the subscription trials they signed up for start auto-billing their cards monthly.
The personal info they submitted is now in the hands of scammers who steal identities and empty bank accounts. Devices infected with downloaded malware may have compromised security and hacked accounts.
In the end, the victims lose money and privacy while the scammers profit off their deception. There is no real Lululemon reviewer program – only a scam designed to defraud.
How to Avoid Falling Victim to the Fake Lululemon Reviewer Scam
Here are some tips to help spot and avoid this insidious con:
Be skeptical of unsolicited emails or ads about lucrative reviewer opportunities requiring upfront personal data. Do your research.
Verify using Lululemon’s official website – don’t just trust third-party pages claiming affiliations.
Check for poor grammar and spelling errors on pages promoting the deal. This signals fraud.
Avoid entering personal info on any unfamiliar sites offering the reviewer program.
Beware downloads required to claim rewards – they likely contain malware.
Read the fine print for any free trials to avoid unwanted charges.
Monitor accounts and credit cards used on suspicious sites for fraudulent activity.
Secure devices against potential malware infections from dubious downloads.
Staying vigilant against scams is your best defense. Real rewards never require handing over sensitive information or signing up for anything upfront.
Here is a section on how to identify the fake Lululemon product reviewer scam on social media and fraudulent websites:
How to Recognize This Scam on Social Media and Websites
The Lululemon reviewer scam relies on convincing social media ads and fake websites to lure in victims. Here are tips to spot their deceptive tactics:
Watch for These Red Flags on Social Media:
Ads promoting an amazing opportunity to review Lululemon products for rewards should raise suspicions.
Pressure tactics in ads urging users to sign up fast before reviewer slots fill up indicates a scam.
Links in social media ads leading to unrelated domains instead of Lululemon’s site are a major warning sign.
Poor grammar and spelling mistakes in the ad copy are common scam giveaways.
Inspect the ad sponsor name, which may sound totally fake or nonsensical.
Be Wary of These Dubious Website Tactics:
URLs with misspellings, extra words added, or unusual domain extensions like .xyz.
Homepages using stolen Lululemon images in a sloppy, disorganized manner.
Spelling/grammar errors throughout the site content and instructions.
Forms asking for personal information and financial details upfront.
Countdown timers or “limited time only” pressures to quickly sign up.
Required downloads from outside sources that may contain malware.
No business registration details, physical addresses, or contact information.
No links going to Lululemon’s official social media pages or website.
Staying alert on social media and carefully inspecting websites can help identify scam tactics aiming to deceive eager victims. Avoid sites requiring personal data upfront and research legitimacy directly through the brand.
What to Do If You Already Fell for This Scam
If you fear you may have been conned by a fake Lululemon reviewer program, follow these steps:
Contact your bank and card issuer to report possible fraudulent charges or subscriptions.
Scan devices for malware if you downloaded any third-party apps or files.
Change passwords on accounts where you used the same username/password combo. Monitor for suspicious activity.
Place fraud alerts and request credit reports to check for accounts opened in your name.
Report fake websites to cybersecurity authorities to aid scam shutdowns.
Learn to spot scams going forward so you can avoid being victimized again. Look for warning signs like pressure tactics, urgency, and too-good-to-be true claims.
Stay proactive if you suspect you were targeted, and help authorities crack down on these criminals. And spread awareness about fake rewards programs to protect others.
Is Your Device Infected? Check for Malware
If your device is running slowly or acting suspicious, it may be infected with malware. Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free is a great option for scanning your device and detecting potential malware or viruses. The free version can efficiently check for and remove many common infections.
Malwarebytes can run on Windows, Mac, and Android devices. Depending on which operating system is installed on the device you’re trying to run a Malwarebytes scan, please click on the tab below and follow the displayed steps.
Malwarebytes For WindowsMalwarebytes For MacMalwarebytes For Android
Scan your computer with Malwarebytes for Windows to remove malware
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 for Windows
You can download Malwarebytes by clicking the link below.
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.
Your computer should now be free of trojans, adware, browser hijackers, 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:
Scan your computer with Malwarebytes for Mac to remove malware
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.
Your Mac should now be free of adware, browser hijackers, and other malware.
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.
Scan your phone with Malwarebytes for Android to remove malware
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.
Your phone should now be free of adware, browser hijackers, and other malware.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Lululemon Product Reviewer Scam
1. What is the Lululemon product reviewer scam?
The Lululemon product reviewer scam is a fraudulent scheme where scammers create fake websites and ads promoting a non-existent rewards program for reviewing Lululemon products in exchange for gift cards.
2. How do the scammers attract potential victims?
Scammers use social media ads, pop-ups, spam emails, and fake websites advertising a lucrative Lululemon product reviewer opportunity. The ads promise rewards like gift cards for reviewing products.
3. What happens when victims sign up through the scammers’ links?
Victims are taken to convincing fake sites and asked to enter personal information and complete offers/downloads to enroll in the fake reviewer program. The scammers then steal their data and money.
4. What methods do the scammers use?
Tactics include fake Lululemon-branded websites, phishing emails, social media ads, pop-up ads, malware downloads, and subscription fee scams, among others. They adapt their methods often.
5. What types of data do victims end up providing?
Scammers trick victims into giving names, emails, physical addresses, phone numbers, birthdates, passwords, and sometimes financial information like credit card numbers.
6. Are there any legitimate Lululemon product reviewer programs offering rewards?
No. Lululemon does not currently have any public product reviewer programs rewarding participants with gift cards. Be suspicious of any ads claiming otherwise.
7. What are signs of the Lululemon reviewer scam?
Bad grammar/spelling, high-pressure tactics, asking for personal info immediately, links going to odd URLs rather than Lululemon’s site, required downloads, and more.
8. What should I do if I shared my information?
Change passwords, monitor accounts, check for identity theft, scan devices for malware, watch out for recurring fees, and report the scam.
9. How can I avoid this scam moving forward?
Verify offers on Lululemon’s real site, avoid entering personal data on unfamiliar sites, use antivirus software, learn red flags of scams, don’t download from random links, etc.
10. Where can I learn more about spotting and avoiding online scams?
Reputable cybersecurity blogs, technology websites, consumer protection agencies, and fraud awareness advocates on social media. Also, the FTC and FBI websites.
The Bottom Line
The Lululemon product reviewer scam relies on false promises of easy rewards like gift cards in exchange for personal information and fraudulent account sign-ups. But any real rewards program by a legitimate company like Lululemon would never require sensitive data or financial activity upfront before paying reviewers.
Use skepticism when assessing unsolicited deals requiring your participation first before payouts. Check company websites for verification, watch for scam red flags, avoid entering data on random sites, and secure accounts if exposed. Becoming an informed and vigilant consumer is the ultimate defense against falling for fake reviewer scams trying to profit off your participation.
How to Stay Safe Online
Here are 10 basic security tips to help you avoid malware and protect your device:
Use a good antivirus and keep it up-to-date.
It's essential to use a good quality antivirus and keep it up-to-date to stay ahead of the latest cyber threats. We are huge fans of Malwarebytes Premium and use it on all of our devices, including Windows and Mac computers as well as our mobile devices. Malwarebytes sits beside your traditional antivirus, filling in any gaps in its defenses, and providing extra protection against sneakier security threats.
Keep software and operating systems up-to-date.
Keep your operating system and apps up to date. Whenever an update is released for your device, download and install it right away. These updates often include security fixes, vulnerability patches, and other necessary maintenance.
Be careful when installing programs and apps.
Pay close attention to installation screens and license agreements when installing software. Custom or advanced installation options will often disclose any third-party software that is also being installed. Take great care in every stage of the process and make sure you know what it is you're agreeing to before you click "Next."
Install an ad blocker.
Use a browser-based content blocker, like AdGuard. Content blockers help stop malicious ads, Trojans, phishing, and other undesirable content that an antivirus product alone may not stop.
Be careful what you download.
A top goal of cybercriminals is to trick you into downloading malware—programs or apps that carry malware or try to steal information. This malware can be disguised as an app: anything from a popular game to something that checks traffic or the weather.
Be alert for people trying to trick you.
Whether it's your email, phone, messenger, or other applications, always be alert and on guard for someone trying to trick you into clicking on links or replying to messages. Remember that it's easy to spoof phone numbers, so a familiar name or number doesn't make messages more trustworthy.
Back up your data.
Back up your data frequently and check that your backup data can be restored. You can do this manually on an external HDD/USB stick, or automatically using backup software. This is also the best way to counter ransomware. Never connect the backup drive to a computer if you suspect that the computer is infected with malware.
Choose strong passwords.
Use strong and unique passwords for each of your accounts. Avoid using personal information or easily guessable words in your passwords. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts whenever possible.
Be careful where you click.
Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. These could potentially contain malware or phishing scams.
Don't use pirated software.
Avoid using Peer-to-Peer (P2P) file-sharing programs, keygens, cracks, and other pirated software that can often compromise your data, privacy, or both.
To avoid potential dangers on the internet, it's important to follow these 10 basic safety rules. By doing so, you can protect yourself from many of the unpleasant surprises that can arise when using the web.
Meet Stelian Pilici
Stelian leverages over a decade of cybersecurity expertise to lead malware analysis and removal, uncover scams, and educate people. His experience provides insightful analysis and valuable perspective.
