A Chinese parcel tracking scam website called Track718 has swindled over $5 million from American shoppers by providing fake package delivery updates to enable shady sellers in keeping payments for unshipped orders.
This elaborate hustle fools U.S. shoppers via social media ads and hooks them with too-good-to-be-true deals on sites that then utilize Track718.com’s fabricated data to falsely signal items were delivered. Victims are left outraged yet powerless as bogus tracking “proves” orders arrived.
Our investigation into this brazen scam reveals how this deceit ensnares victims by betraying their trust in the convenience of modern online shopping.
Exposing the Chinese Parcel Tracking Fake Site Track718 Scam
Track718 mirrors parcel carriers’ tracking sites but has no affiliation with actual shippers like USPS or FedEx. Instead, it was specifically created to help shady dropshipping stores retain payments for unsent goods by displaying fake delivery updates.
When defrauded shoppers check the site using their provided tracking code, it invariably displays the status as “successfully delivered” even when no order arrives.
This false claim of delivery allows partner websites to abscond with shoppers’ money while avoiding responsibility for non-delivery by pointing to it’s fabricated data.
Hooking Victims Via Social Media Advertisements
Track718 enables this scam by providing bogus tracking codes to affiliate shopping websites, who heavily advertise too-good-to-be-true deals on social platforms like Facebook and Instagram to lure in potential victims.
These ads tempt shoppers with eye-catching offers on hard-to-find or discounted products. But when orders inevitably don’t arrive, the sites refer complainants to Track718.com which “confirms” successful delivery.
I clicked an ad on Facebook for cute earrings at a crazy low price. But after a month when they never arrived, the site said Track718 showed they were delivered. But I never got my order! It’s a whole fake system to keep my money.
A Miami woman explained the fraud tracking site Track 718
While earrings and jewelry are common lures, fraudsters also tout deals on trending shoes, handbags, electronics, and other coveted goods. Shipping fake tracking data lets them retain payments while leaving customers empty-handed.
One Detroit man recounted, “I jumped on an Instagram ad for the new retro Jordan sneakers at way below normal pricing. But the site ‘Shopyeezy.com’ took my money and is now ghosting me. Track718 says they delivered it, but that’s obviously false. I got ripped off through this whole scam network.”
Follow the Money: Who’s Behind This? Is this from China?
Registering details for Track 718 point to origins in China, though scam stores advertising its tracking services often conceal their true locations. Security experts also uncovered major financial operations supporting Track718 housed in Hong Kong.
So while Americans suffer the effects, parties behind this scam likely operate overseas – complicating efforts to hold them legally accountable.
No Accountability for Users Scammed
Victims lured in through social media or online classifieds frequently never receive ordered items. But when pointing to Track 718’s fake delivery data, fraudulent sellers escape responsibility – leaving users helpless.
“They stole my money and will clearly never ship my item,” one victim explained. “But the site says Track718 shows it got here. So I’m out $120 and they face no consequences.”
This lack of accountability and inability to achieve refunds spurs much outrage. But opaque, international operations for both Track 718 and hidden scam store owners permit this theft to continue unchecked.
How To Avoid Similar Rackets like Track718
While this scam ensnares many, telltale signals can help shoppers steer clear:
- Avoid unfamiliar online sellers touting prices far below normal market rates – it’s likely a scam setup.
- Be skeptical of any previously unencountered package tracking site like Track718.com. Legitimate carriers allow tracking through their official domains.
- Search online for the store name along with words like “scam” or “fraud.” Others likely posted warnings if they were already victimized.
- Only use credit cards for purchases as providers often refund scam transactions. Debit payments directly withdraw cash from your bank account. Don’t pay using gift cards, PayPal, Zelle or cryptocurrency.
Protect yourself by avoiding unbelievable deals from unknown sites. And never trust package tracking unless through a shipper’s official website that you recognize and trust.
What to Do if You Fall in their Trap?
If you suspect being defrauded via Track 718 and a sketchy dropshipping store, promptly:
- Document evidence showing items were never received.
- Report the fraud to your bank/credit card issuer to halt payments. Inform relevant agencies like your state consumer protection bureau.
- Monitor your credit as scammers may have accessed sensitive information used in identity theft.
- Fraudsters can target you again as they have your information. So, do not provide them any personal or financial information.
- Report the scam to authorities and review sites to aid investigations
- Reset passwords and run antivirus scans on payment-connected devices
- Aware others by sharing this article
Though reversing scam purchases can prove challenging, notifying financial institutions and watching for potential fraud remain vital steps.
The Devil Is in the Online Shopping Details
Stings via Track718 and shady social media stores remind us threats exist even amidst modern convenience. This episode unveils how elaborate tricks betray customer trust to enable theft.
Let your friends or family know if it was used to excuse an undelivered order. Spread awareness so fewer fall prey while shopping online. And stick to major retailer sites you know and trust to avoid becoming another statistic scammed by fake tracking tools and swindling stores.
