ShopperClaims.com $750 Target Gift Card Scam Exposed: What You Need to Know
Written by: Thomas Orsolya
Published on:
A flashy web page promising a $750 Target gift card just for completing a few tasks might sound like the perfect deal. But if you’ve been directed to ShopperClaims.com, it’s time to pause and think critically. While the offer claims to be part of a product sampler or promotional giveaway, what lies beneath the surface is a scheme designed to exploit your data and attention.
This article investigates the truth behind the ShopperClaims.com $750 Target gift card offer. We break down how the scam operates, why so many people fall for it, what steps to take if you’ve already interacted with it, and how to protect yourself from similar traps in the future.
Scam Overview: The Bait and Switch
ShopperClaims.com presents a very simple message: you can earn a $750 Target gift card by completing a few “deals.”
The pitch is convincing:
Start by clicking a bold red “Start Now” button
Submit basic personal information (name, email, ZIP code)
Complete five sponsored offers or tasks
Receive a $750 Target gift card
But what really happens is far different. Once you enter your information, you are directed through a labyrinth of affiliate deals and upsells. You’re asked to:
Sign up for free trials (often with hidden fees)
Download apps or software
Participate in surveys that never end
Every interaction benefits the operator of the scam. You get nothing in return—not even a confirmation email, let alone a Target gift card.
What Makes It Seem Legit
It uses Target’s logo and color branding
It includes a step-by-step FAQ section
The layout is clean, responsive, and mobile-friendly
It mimics the tone of legitimate reward programs
These superficial elements help lull users into believing they are participating in a legitimate offer. In reality, it’s all a façade.
What ShopperClaims.com Is Really Doing
ShopperClaims.com is a classic example of a lead generation scam. The site collects personal information, directs traffic through affiliate links, and monetizes your attention by forcing you to engage with partner offers. Every action you take—every click, download, or form you submit—earns the scam operator a commission.
There is no intention to deliver the promised gift card.
How the ShopperClaims.com Scam Works
Step 1: The Clickbait Hook
The journey begins with clickbait-style ads or popups:
“You’ve been selected to receive a $750 Target gift card!”
“Complete a few deals to unlock your reward!”
“Act fast—only a few gift cards left!”
These messages are usually delivered through:
Facebook or Instagram ads
Pop-up windows on questionable websites
Email or SMS promotions from unknown senders
Step 2: The Landing Page Illusion
Once you click the link, you land on ShopperClaims.com. The page is simple:
Large Target logo
Clear steps to qualify
Bold red button to “Start Now”
A mini FAQ to address your hesitation
The presentation is polished, but it’s entirely unaffiliated with Target.
Step 3: Data Collection
You’re asked to enter your:
Name
Email
ZIP code or other contact details
This data can be:
Sold to marketing lists
Used to send more scam offers
Stored for phishing and future fraud
Step 4: The Affiliate Gauntlet
After submitting your info, the real scheme begins. You are presented with a set of 5 “required” deals. These vary but often include:
Signing up for free trials that later charge your card
Downloading apps that may contain trackers
Filling out surveys for no clear reward
Every deal is an affiliate offer. The scammer makes money from every single one you interact with, whether or not you complete them all.
Step 5: The Moving Goalpost
Even if you complete all the deals, the gift card never materializes. Instead, you may see:
A message that more verification is needed
A request to complete additional offers
A notice that the gift card is out of stock
By now, the scammers have made money off your actions. You walk away with nothing.
What to Do If You Fell for the ShopperClaims.com Scam
1. Stop Interacting With the Site
Immediately close all tabs and don’t click additional links.
2. Clear Browser Cache and Cookies
Remove tracking codes and session data that may have been stored.
3. Change Passwords
If you submitted credentials or reused a password, change it across all accounts.
4. Check for Unauthorized Charges
If you submitted your credit card info for a “free trial,” check your bank statement and cancel any suspicious transactions or subscriptions.
5. Run a Malware Scan
Use trusted antivirus software to check your device for malware or adware that may have come from downloads.
Target customer support (to make them aware of the impersonation)
7. Warn Others
Tell your friends, family, or post in online forums. Spreading awareness can help prevent others from falling into the same trap.
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 ShopperClaims.com Target Gift Card Scam
Is ShopperClaims.com affiliated with Target?
No. ShopperClaims.com is not affiliated with Target. The site misuses Target’s branding to create a false sense of legitimacy and lure users into completing affiliate offers under the pretense of earning a $750 gift card.
Can I actually get a $750 Target gift card from ShopperClaims.com?
No. The promised gift card is never delivered. Users are required to complete multiple “deals” that benefit the site’s operators through affiliate commissions. No verified reward is ever issued.
What are the “deals” I need to complete?
The deals usually include:
Downloading apps
Signing up for free trials with your credit card
Completing surveys that collect personal data
Registering for subscription services
Each action earns revenue for ShopperClaims.com through affiliate networks.
Is it safe to enter my personal or payment information?
No. Sharing your email, phone number, or credit card can result in:
Spam emails and robocalls
Unauthorized subscription charges
Increased exposure to phishing and scams
What happens after I finish all the deals?
You’re usually told that you didn’t complete enough offers or are redirected to complete more. There is no actual system that delivers a gift card. It’s a deceptive loop to keep you generating affiliate revenue.
How does ShopperClaims.com make money?
The site earns money through affiliate marketing. Every time a user completes a “deal” (like a free trial, download, or survey), ShopperClaims.com earns a commission from third-party networks.
Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3): www.ic3.gov
Target’s official customer service to report brand misuse
How can I avoid falling for similar scams?
Always check if a promotion is listed on the brand’s official website
Avoid sites that ask for unrelated app installs or trial signups to receive a gift
Never provide credit card information to unverified websites
Use browser security tools to identify scam links
What if I already submitted my info?
If you gave personal details or payment info:
Change your passwords
Monitor your accounts for suspicious activity
Cancel any unwanted subscriptions
Run antivirus software
Report the scam immediately
Are all online gift card offers fake?
Not all—but most high-value offers that require multiple third-party actions are deceptive. Legitimate offers are typically hosted directly by brands, clearly disclose terms, and do not require excessive unrelated steps.
The Bottom Line
The ShopperClaims.com offer for a $750 Target gift card is a scam. It is not authorized by Target. There is no gift card. Instead, the site is a bait-and-switch that tricks users into providing their information and completing affiliate deals—all while generating money for the scammer.
Legitimate reward programs don’t ask you to complete multiple unrelated offers or trials to earn a reward. They don’t hide the terms or refuse to deliver after completion.
Always verify promotions through the official brand website. If a site demands excessive tasks, vague commitments, and offers unrealistic rewards—it’s almost certainly a scam.
Stay cautious. Stay informed. And remember: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
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.