Discount shopping can be tempting, especially when you come across ads or websites promising huge markdowns on big-ticket items. However, some of these “deals” are actually elaborate scams designed to trick unsuspecting shoppers into handing over their money for non-existent or low-quality products. One such scam making the rounds online lately involves fake Total Tools clearance sales offering tools and hardware at 90% off regular prices.
In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at how this Total Tools scam works, identify some common red flags to watch out for, and provide tips on how to avoid getting duped. With the right information, you can protect yourself and your hard-earned money from online retail scams.
Overview of the Total Tools 90% Off Clearance Sale Scam
The Total Tools clearance sale scam is one of the latest online shopping frauds deceiving buyers with fake discounts and tricking them into handing over money for nonexistent products. This elaborate con works by creating the illusion of incredible deals on expensive power tools and hardware, using the trusted Total Tools brand to seem legitimate.
Scammers are heavily promoting these bogus 90% off sales through sponsored ads on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. The ads feature imagery of Total Tools products and stores, plus tantalizing text touting huge markdowns on top tool brands. For example, an ad might state “Total Tools Warehouse Clearance Sale! All Makita power tools up to 90% off for limited time!”
The goal is to capture the attention of users who are interested in construction, home improvement, or related hobbies. Seeing prominent ads promising near-giveaway prices on normally costly items like Milwaukee cordless combo kits or DeWalt miter saws is often too good for bargain seekers to pass up. They click through to what appears to be the Total Tools website offering an incredible limited-time sale.
In reality, these social media ads and linked sites have no association with the legitimate Total Tools company. Scammers have fabricated the promotions entirely, with the sole purpose of deceiving shoppers and harvesting their money and personal data.
The fake ecommerce websites use stolen Total Tools branding and stock images to look authentic at first glance. However, telltale signs like unbelievable prices, dubious contact info, grammatical errors, and more should tip off savvy online shoppers to the fraud.
Unfortunately, many victims are lured in by the seemingly amazing clearance sale discounts being advertised. On the scam sites, expensive premium cordless drill kits may be listed at $39, high-end table saws at $49, and pro-grade air compressors at $29 – up to 90% off or more.
Once victims place items in their cart and attempt to check out, the scammers collect their full name, shipping address, phone number, email address, and credit card information – everything needed for identity theft and financial fraud.
Yet after submitting payment info through the spoofed portal, shoppers soon realize they have been scammed when no products ever arrive. The swindlers take the money and personal data without any intention of sending merchandise. They only want to harvest enough victims’ information to make the fraud profitable before shutting down a site and reopening a new one.
Sometimes gullible shoppers receive a cheap, generic item like a basic flashlight or random dollar store trinkets in the mail. This helps the scammers prolong the charade, as they can claim they fulfilled the order. But victims obviously don’t get the promised premium tools worth hundreds of dollars. Receiving any item also makes it harder to dispute the charges with banks.
The sophisticated nature of these fake shopping websites and the use of the Total Tools logo convinces many people these deals are legitimate. Scammers know brand familiarity helps build trust in their con. But the websites and ads pushing them are completely fabricated by organized cybercriminals, often operating internationally.
There is generally no way for victims to get their money back once scammed, though some have success disputing the charges with their credit card company or bank if reported immediately. The websites themselves disappear quickly when exposed, soon reappearing under new domain names.
Savvy online shoppers must watch for the telltale signs of these clearance sale scams and avoid taking the bait of unbelievable markdowns. When a deal seems too good to be true, approach with extreme caution – especially involving brand names like Total Tools being promoted through social media ads rather than official channels. We’ll explore more specific red flags coming up to help identify and prevent this fraud.
How the Total Tools 90% Off Scam Works
The Total Tools clearance sale scam unfolds in several steps designed to dupe customers and maximize ill-gotten profits for the scammers behind it. Here is an overview of how this devious fraud typically operates:
Step 1 – Scam Ads on Social Media
The first point of contact for victims is generally a sponsored post or video ad run by the scammers on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, or other platforms. The ad features images of Total Tools products or storefronts and highlights clearance sale discounts up to 90% off.
These ads are targeted toward users who may be interested in tools, home improvement, construction work, and related topics. The goal is to capture their attention with seemingly unbelievable savings on expensive items.
Step 2 – The Fake Ecommerce Website
When victims click on the link in the social media ad, they are taken to the scam website set up by the fraudsters. The site has a domain name designed to look somewhat official and uses Total Tools branding throughout to appear credible.
However, a close look reveals many red flags: stock photos, fake addresses, dubious contact info, and, of course, the unrealistic low prices on premium tools. More details on identifying scam site warning signs in the next section.
Step 3 – Phishing for Personal and Payment Information
If you attempt to make a purchase on their site, the scammers will harvest your personal and financial information. They collect shipping addresses, contact details, and credit card numbers to maximize their haul.
Victims will be asked to input this data before finalizing the fake checkout process. Some sites may even have phony order confirmation screens after submitting payment.
Step 4 – Victims Never Receive Products
Not surprisingly, the discounted power tools and hardware ordered from the scam websites never arrive. The scammers have no inventory or intention of fulfilling any purchases. In some cases, victims may receive a cheap, generic item like a basic flashlight or something completely random.
Once the fraudsters have your money and information, their interaction with the victim ends. You’ll find it impossible to contact the “company” because all their info is fake. Any funds paid are lost for good in most cases.
Spotting the Fake Total Tools Sites
While scammers try to create authentic-looking websites to carry out their Total Tools clearance sale scam, there are many telltale signs that a site is fake:
- Suspicious Domain Names – Scam sites often have names that sound similar to the real company, but slightly altered. For example, using “totoolz” or “totaltools-outlet” instead of the real totaltools.com.au.
- No Verified Company Info – Scam sites lack legitimate business registration details in the domain lookup. The real Total Tools provides full address, phone, ABN, and other verified contact info.
- Prices Too Good to Be True – Genuine sales may offer discounts, but 90% or more off is unrealistic. Scam sites lure victims with prices like $29, $39, $49 for premium tools worth far more.
- Limited Contact Options – Scam sites only provide an email address for contact or fake details. Total Tools offers phone, email, live chat, and physical store locations for customer service.
- Copied Images & Text – Scammers lift product photos, logos, and standard descriptions from Total Tools and other sites. But the content only appears legitimate on the surface.
- “Act Now” Slogans – Homepages feature slogans like “Clearance Sale – 90% Off Limited Time Only!” to create false urgency.
- Grammatical Errors – Scam sites contain numerous spelling/grammar mistakes indicating they were hastily created by non-native English speakers.
- No Real Reviews – Scam sites lack authentic customer reviews. Any existing reviews are fake. Total Tools has years of genuine reviews across platforms.
- Stock Website Template – Scammers use basic templates for quick launch. Total Tools has custom design, development, and functionality.
- No Social Media Presence – Scams lack legitimate social media connections. The real Total Tools is active on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube.
With careful scrutiny, the fraudulent sites are identifiable. True clearance sales don’t offer $4000 equipment for $49. Let the red flags guide you to only trustworthy retailers like the real Total Tools site.
Stay vigilant and think critically, and you can identify these sketchy websites before falling victim to their scams. Do your due diligence before attempting any online purchase to ensure your money ends up with a legitimate retailer.
How to Spot the Total Tools Scam on Social Media
The scam ads for the fake Total Tools clearance sales frequently appear on popular social platforms to reach a broad audience of potential victims. The fraudsters behind these cons heavily utilize Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok to promote their bait.
Knowing the common characteristics of the scam content on each platform makes it easier to recognize the deception before you get hooked.
Spotting the Scam on Facebook
On Facebook, the Total Tools scammers run sponsored posts containing images of tools and text about clearance sales. Here is what to watch out for:
- Ad texts using enticing slogans like “Warehouse Sale,” “Store Closing Sale,” “Going Out of Business,” “Today Only,” and “Free Shipping.”
- Claims of unrealistic discounts up to 90% off all Total Tools products.
- Prices listed as $29, $39, $49 for expensive brand name tools.
- Images stolen from legitimate websites showing desirable products.
- Links leading to fake Total Tools ecommerce sites with unbelievable deals.
- Ad Targeting aimed at users Facebook deems interested in hardware, construction, mechanics and related topics.
For example, you may see a sponsored post with a photo of a DeWalt power tool kit and this text:
“Total Tools Store Closing Sale! All DeWalt tools up to 90% off! Get this 20V cordless combo kit for just $39 today only! Limited quantities!”
Once you learn the pattern, huge red flags like these make the Facebook scam ads easy to identify.
Spotting the Scam on Instagram
The Instagram scam ads tend to primarily use Stories format to target a younger demographic. Watch for:
- Stories ads with short text and slogans like “90% Off Sale!” “Free Shipping” “Huge Discounts Today” etc.
- Tagged images showing tools or products, often stolen from genuine sites.
- Swipe up or Clickable links in Stories leading to the phony ecommerce stores.
- Highly targeted ads based on Instagram’s data about your interests and activity.
An example Total Tools Stories scam ad might have an image of a Milwaukee power drill tagged “Massive Sale Today Only!” with a swipe up link to the fake clearance sale site. Instagram’s targeting and formats give scammers powerful tools for micro-focused cons.
Spotting the Scam on TikTok
On TikTok, scam advertisers make video ads acting like individuals who discovered an unbelievable sale. Signals include:
- Fake TikTok accounts with stock images or stolen profile pictures promoting the sales.
- Highly scripted, generic videos from “users” astounded by the tool prices.
- Enthusiastic claims that viewers can save 90% or similar discounts.
- Links in bios or captions pointing to the sham websites.
For example, you may see a dubious TikTok account with a video of someone saying: “OMG I just found this Total Tools clearance sale where you can get big brand power tools for $29! Run don’t walk, go save 90% before everything sells out!” Almost certainly a fraudster.
Whether Facebook, Instagram or TikTok, the scam ads target users based on data about their interests and connections. But understanding the common tactics on each platform equips you to recognize fraudulent promotions and sellers. Stay alert to protect your personal and financial information.
What to Do if You’re a Victim of the Total Tools Clearance Sale Scam
Unfortunately, many shoppers only realize they’ve been conned by a Total Tools fake sale after it’s too late. If you made a purchase through one of these scam sites and never received your items, take the following steps right away to try mitigating the damage:
- Call Your Credit Card Company – Contact your credit card provider immediately to report the transaction as fraudulent. Depending on their policies, the provider may be able to reverse the charges and issue a new card number.
- Place Fraud Alert on Credit Report – Call one of the three major credit bureaus (Experian, TransUnion, Equifax) to place an initial 90-day fraud alert on your credit file. This requires creditors to take extra steps to verify your identity before opening new accounts.
- Monitor Your Accounts Closely – Keep an eye out for any suspicious charges or activity on all your financial accounts. Scammers may have gained enough info through the initial purchase to try more fraud.
- Update Passwords – Change passwords, security questions, and pins for any online accounts associated with the compromised card. Enable two-factor authentication wherever possible.
- Contact Website Host – If able to identify the web host or registrar used by the scam site, contact them to report the abuse. The site may get taken down to prevent further victims.
- Report Fraud to Authorities – File a complaint with the FTC and Internet Crime Complaint Center (ic3.gov). Local police may also want reports to aid potential fraud investigations.
- Warn Others – Post about your experience on social media and consumer sites to make others aware of the scam. The more light shed on their tactics, the harder it will be for scammers to find new victims.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Fake Total Tools Sale
1. How can I identify a Total Tools scam website or social media ad?
Watch for red flags like prices that seem too good to be true (90% off), enticing slogans (“clearance sale!”), recently created domains, stolen images/text, only an email address for contact, and lack of real reviews. Legitimate major retailers don’t offer $3000 equipment for $29. See the scam identification tips in this article for more details.
2. Are the power tools and hardware on these sites real Total Tools merchandise?
No. The scam websites have no relationship with the actual Total Tools company. Any merchandise purchased through these fraudulent sites does not exist. The scam is designed to collect victim’s money and personal information only.
3. What happens if I order tools advertised on a Total Tools scam site?
You will not receive any legitimate branded tools ordered on these fake sites. At best, victims eventually receive cheap, generic items like basic flashlights. Often, you receive nothing at all after the scammers collect your money and information. Do not provide payment or personal details to any suspicious site.
4. How can I get my money back if I paid a Total Tools scam website?
Unfortunately, funds lost via these scams are difficult to recover. Contact your bank or credit card provider immediately to dispute the charges as fraudulent. Monitor your credit card statements closely for any suspicious charges. Place fraud alerts and change passwords for all online accounts if compromised.
5. Can I find real discounted Total Tools merchandise online?
Yes, but only through the official totaltools.com.au website. The legitimate retailer may offer sales or deals, but no genuine retailer will ever offer premium tools at 90% off regular prices. Only purchase directly from Total Tools official channels.
6. Should I report Total Tools scam ads or websites I encounter?
Absolutely. Report fake ads to the social media platforms where you see them. Report scam websites to registrars and hosts to try getting them taken down. Submit details to the FTC, Internet Crime Complaint Center (ic3.gov), and other fraud reporting agencies. Your reports help authorities track down scammers and protect other consumers.
7. How can I avoid online shopping scams like the Total Tools fraud?
Stay vigilant when shopping online, especially for costly items. Only purchase from trusted sites with secure checkout processes. Research sellers thoroughly and look for warning signs like unrealistic prices. Avoid clicking external ads – go directly to official brand sites for purchases. If a deal seems too good to be true, proceed with extreme caution.
8. Who is behind the Total Tools scam ads and websites?
They are created by sophisticated cybercriminals and scammers, often operating internationally in countries with low fraud enforcement. They are experts in quickly building fake storefronts, running scam ads across social media, and staying steps ahead of authorities. Be diligent to avoid falling victim.
9. Should I avoid shopping online because of scams like this?
No, online shopping is still generally safe when using trusted retailers. But always exercise caution – look for warning signs, research sellers, use secure payments, and avoid unbelievable deals from unknown sites. With sound judgment, you can shop smart online while avoiding sophisticated scams.
10. What should I do if I shared my credit card or personal information with a Total Tools scam site?
Immediately contact your card provider to report fraudulent charges and potentially get a new card number issued. Put a fraud alert on your credit file, update account passwords, and monitor your credit reports. Safeguard personal information by only providing it to verified, legitimate businesses with secure checkout processes.
The Bottom Line – Protect Yourself from Total Tools Scams
While fake clearance sales from “Total Tools” sound appealing, savvy shoppers should always confirm they are dealing with legitimate retailers before handing over any money or personal information. Following general online shopping best practices will minimize your risk:
- Buy directly from official brand sites – Go straight to the source (totaltools.com.au) rather than clicking external ads.
- Research sellers – Search for reviews and complaints before purchasing to gauge trustworthiness.
- Beware unbelievable deals – Extremely low prices are almost always too good to be true.
- Use secure payment methods – Pay only through the official website checkout, never via external payment links. Avoid wire transfers with new retailers.
- Check site security – Look for “https” URLs and SSL certificates on checkout pages.
- Use credit cards – For added fraud protection, pay credit rather than debit. Avoid gift cards or CashApp.
- Keep documentation – Save all order confirmations and payment receipts in case an issue arises later.
Exercising caution and avoiding impulse buys from unfamiliar sites will help you steer clear of clearance sale scammers. If you ensure you are dealing with a real, reputable seller, you can take advantage of genuine deals and discounts worry-free. Don’t let scam artists trick you out of your money
