Women making up 68 per cent of beauty scam victims
Christmas shoppers are being warned not to take “serious risks” with their health, as Santander UK has recorded nearly £50,000 stolen by beauty treatment scammers so far this year. The scams range from counterfeit perfumes and makeup to botox, lip and collagen fillers, and other cosmetic treatments, according to the bank. Approximately two-thirds (68 per cent) of the cases recorded by Santander involved female victims.
Since January, Santander has recorded £49,846.32 reported as being stolen by beauty scammers, with an average loss of £227. Fraudsters are using social media and private messaging apps to lure victims with “offers” and influencer-style content promising cheap deals on popular aesthetic procedures, the bank said.
Michelle Pilsworth, head of UK fraud at Santander, said: “Slick social media profiles and fake reviews might appear trustworthy – but if an offer looks too good to be true, it probably is. The scam typically begins with a fake advert on social media promoting heavily discounted treatments or cosmetics.”
She continued: “Once a user expresses interest, the seller will often move the conversation to a messaging app to arrange payment by bank transfer or payment link. Then the product never arrives or turns out to be fake – and victims are left with nothing but regret.”
Ms Pilsworth added: “This isn’t just about losing money – it’s about protecting your wellbeing. Fake cosmetic treatments can cause real harm. As the festive party season approaches, Santander is urging consumers to be especially vigilant. Fraudsters know shoppers are likely to be on the hunt for new deals and low-cost gifts ahead of Christmas, and they’ll use this to their advantage.”
Dr Emma Meredith, director general of the Cosmetic Toiletry & Perfumery Association, warned: “Counterfeit cosmetics and personal care products may look like the brands we love, but the packaging is where the similarity ends. You could be buying a product that won’t work in the way you want, or worse, could pose a serious risk to your health.”
She added: “Alongside fake goods, online scams selling non-existent products are also on the rise. The cosmetics industry takes consumer safety very seriously. Fake, illegal and fraudulent products not only jeopardise consumer wellbeing but also threaten the trust that millions of consumers have in the many legal and safe cosmetic products available and used every day.”
Warning signs identified by the Cosmetic Toiletry & Perfumery Association
- If a product is being sold at an unusually low price, it may be an untested and dangerous imitation that isn’t worth risking your health for.
- Be wary of advertisements promoting “flash sales” offering steep discounts on products.
- Fraudulent social media accounts peddling counterfeits might include the genuine brand name. When uncertain, visit the brand’s official website and navigate to their verified social media presence.
- Be wary of individuals who frequently post about items for sale on social media, but rarely engage with other community members.
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