Target Bogg Bag Scam Exposed: The Truth Behind the $9.90 Deal
Written by: Thomas Orsolya
Published on:
A colorful bag, a heart-tugging story, and a deal that feels too good to pass up. That’s how scammers are tricking thousands of unsuspecting shoppers with the so-called $9.90 Target Bogg Bag Survey Scam. If you’ve seen a sponsored post on Facebook or Instagram claiming you can get a Bogg Bag Original for under ten dollars due to a secret Target clearance or survey loophole, you’re not alone. But beware — this “offer” is a dangerous trap that could cost you much more than just your credit card info.
This article unpacks everything you need to know about this scam: how it works, what to do if you’ve already been targeted, and how to protect yourself and others from falling victim.
Scam Overview
The $9.90 Target Bogg Bag Survey Scam is a cleverly constructed fraud campaign that targets social media users with promises of huge savings. At its core, it’s a deceptive subscription scam that uses fake stories, AI-generated content, and counterfeit websites to collect personal and financial data from unsuspecting consumers.
Fake Stories with Emotional Hooks
Scammers often create fabricated stories to build emotional trust. In many of these scam posts, someone claims their mother was unjustly fired from Target after nine years due to health issues. This emotionally charged tale is used to justify why they are “exposing” a hidden promotion Target doesn’t want you to know about.
Misleading Advertisements
These posts are promoted across Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, typically using:
AI-generated voiceovers
Fake photos of Target receipts
Poorly Photoshopped images of Bogg Bags
False urgency: “Offer ends today!”
The narrative pushes users to believe they’re stumbling on a rare, time-sensitive deal that needs immediate action.
Impersonation of Trusted Brands
To appear credible, scammers mimic reputable media sites like CNN or Fox News. They clone the layout and design of these trusted outlets to give the impression that the giveaway has been featured in legitimate news articles. The URLs for these pages are shady and usually include domains like laststepsurv.top, wahajyu.info, and others.
At first glance, these fake articles appear real. They include fake testimonials, product photos, and step-by-step instructions on how to get your bag. But click on any button or link, and you’re led to a site mimicking Target’s branding that begins the scam process.
The Real Goal: Subscription Theft
Once users follow the steps, they are told to complete a short four-question survey. After “winning” the Bogg Bag, they are asked for their:
Full name
Address
Phone number
Credit card details (“to cover shipping”)
Victims believe they are paying just $9.96 for shipping, but what they are really doing is enrolling in recurring subscription services for movie clubs, PDF tools, eBooks, or fitness programs they never asked for. In many cases, victims report:
Monthly charges between $29.95 and $89.95
No access to any service
No receipt or contact details
No Bogg Bag received
How the Scam Works
This section breaks down exactly how this scam unfolds, so you can recognize every red flag along the way.
Step 1: Social Media Advertisement
The scam begins with a sponsored post or a viral video on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube. These posts include:
A heartwarming or tragic story
Emotional appeals and a sense of urgency
Claims of a hidden Target clearance promotion
Photos of Bogg Bags and receipts
Step 2: Fake News Page
When the user clicks on the ad, they are redirected to a fake article pretending to be from CNN, Fox News, or another well-known outlet. The article explains that Bogg Bags are being offered at $9.90 due to overstock, mispackaging, canceled shipments, or another made-up reason.
Step 3: “Claim the Offer”
The bottom of the article features a large call-to-action button: “Claim Your Bogg Bag Now.”
Clicking this button redirects users to a page designed to look exactly like Target’s official site, with logos, fonts, and colors.
Step 4: Fake Survey
Here, the user is asked to answer a short survey:
What color Bogg Bag do you want?
Have you shopped at Target before?
How did you hear about this deal?
Once the survey is complete, a message appears: “Congratulations! You’re eligible to receive a Bogg Bag Original for just $9.96 shipping!”
Step 5: Form Submission
The user is then asked to enter their:
Full name
Address
Phone number
Email address
Credit card information
It is at this point the scam strikes. Users think they’re only paying for shipping, but the fine print (if any) includes a clause enrolling them in a recurring monthly membership fee.
Step 6: The Charges Begin
Victims soon notice:
No Bogg Bag ever arrives
Their cards are charged again and again each month
Attempts to cancel are unsuccessful or ignored
The scammer’s goal is to keep the subscription going as long as possible before the victim catches on or the card is canceled.
Step 7: Ghost Websites and No Support
When victims try to seek refunds or cancel their subscription, they hit dead ends:
The website disappears
Customer service numbers don’t work
Emails bounce
In some cases, the scam company may respond and make cancellation difficult, offering partial refunds only after multiple threats of chargebacks.
What To Do If You’ve Fallen Victim to This Scam
If you suspect that you’ve been scammed by the $9.90 Bogg Bag “offer,” take immediate action:
1. Cancel Your Credit Card
Contact your bank or credit card issuer right away and cancel the card you used. Request a new card and explain that your card was used in a scam.
2. Dispute the Charges
File a dispute for any unauthorized charges. Many banks have fraud departments that can reverse charges or block future ones.
Better Business Bureau (BBB) if the website pretended to be a business
Facebook or Instagram if the ad appeared there
Target directly, to inform them their brand is being used
4. Monitor Your Credit
Sign up for a credit monitoring service or use a free tool to keep an eye on your accounts. If any unauthorized accounts are opened in your name, act fast.
5. Leave Reviews and Warn Others
Post your experience on scam reporting websites like:
Trustpilot
SiteJabber
Reddit scam communities
This can help protect others from falling for the same trick.
6. Warn Your Friends
If you shared the post or clicked the link, let your friends know it’s a scam. Scams spread quickly through social sharing.
7. Freeze Your Credit (If Necessary)
If you’re worried about identity theft, freeze your credit with Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian. This prevents scammers from opening new credit lines in your name.
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 $9.90 Target Bogg Bag Scam
What is the $9.90 Target Bogg Bag Survey Scam?
The $9.90 Target Bogg Bag Survey Scam is an online fraud that lures users through social media ads or fake news articles. It claims that Target is offering Bogg Bags for just $9.90 due to overstock or packaging issues. Victims are asked to complete a survey and pay a small shipping fee, but this actually signs them up for expensive monthly subscriptions. No Bogg Bag is ever delivered.
Is the $9.90 Bogg Bag promotion from Target real?
No, the $9.90 Bogg Bag offer is not legitimate. Target is not running any such promotion. The scam falsely uses Target’s branding and fake stories to gain your trust. If the deal isn’t listed on Target’s official website (target.com), it is not real.
How does this scam trick people?
This scam uses a multi-step approach:
Promotes fake ads on Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram.
Redirects users to fake news pages (made to look like CNN or Fox News).
Links to a fake Target survey site.
Promises a Bogg Bag for $9.90 shipping.
Collects personal and credit card information.
Enrolls victims in recurring paid subscriptions without consent.
What happens after I enter my credit card details?
Once you enter your credit card information, you are charged a small fee (around $9.90) that supposedly covers shipping. However, your card is then enrolled in an ongoing subscription that may charge you $29.95, $49.95, or even more every month. Victims typically receive no products and struggle to cancel or get refunds.
Will I ever receive a Bogg Bag?
No. The Bogg Bag is a lure to make the scam look legitimate. Victims report that they never receive anything, and the companies behind the scam are unreachable or non-existent.
What are some red flags that show this is a scam?
Watch for the following red flags:
Offers that sound too good to be true.
Emotional stories used to justify a hidden deal.
Fake receipts and product photos.
URLs that are not official Target links (look out for strange domain names like wahajyu.info, laststepsurv.top, etc.).
A request for personal and payment information on unfamiliar websites.
Are AI-generated videos used in this scam?
Yes. Scammers are now using AI-generated voiceovers and videos to make their ads appear more trustworthy. Some even use deepfake videos of celebrities to promote the fake offer. This makes the scam more convincing, especially on platforms like TikTok and YouTube.
Why do scammers target Bogg Bags?
Bogg Bags are popular and often sold at premium prices. Their high demand and social media appeal make them an ideal product for scammers to use in fake giveaway campaigns. Many shoppers are more willing to believe a deal like this is real because the item is so desirable.
What kind of subscriptions do victims get charged for?
Victims have reported recurring charges for:
Movie streaming memberships
Digital book or PDF tools
Health or fitness programs
Useless online services with no customer support
These subscriptions are often buried in the fine print or not disclosed at all.
Warn your friends and family to avoid similar offers.
Leave reviews online to help others avoid the trap.
Can I get my money back?
In many cases, yes. If you act quickly and contact your bank, you may be able to reverse the fraudulent charges through a dispute or chargeback. The sooner you act, the better your chances of recovering your money.
Where should I report this scam?
You can report the scam to the following organizations:
Always verify deals on the official retailer’s website.
Be skeptical of emotional social media posts promoting limited-time deals.
Avoid entering your payment info on unfamiliar websites.
Use credit cards with fraud protection, not debit cards.
Research offers using trusted sources or scam-reporting forums before participating.
The Bottom Line
The $9.90 Bogg Bag “deal” linked to Target is not real. It is part of a widespread online scam using emotional manipulation, fake media coverage, and subscription fraud tactics. If something sounds too good to be true, especially on social media, it probably is.
Stay skeptical. Never enter your credit card info on unfamiliar sites. If you’re ever unsure, search for the deal on the retailer’s official website. And remember, Target does not give away premium bags for under $10 as part of hidden surveys.
Your best defense is awareness. Share this article, talk about it, and help stop the spread of this scam before it claims more victims.
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.
