Introduction: Is Argos Really Selling PS5 for £1.78?
Recently, a Facebook post went viral, claiming that Argos, a leading UK retailer, was offering PlayStation 5 (PS5) consoles for just £1.78. The post, which has gained significant attention, features a man holding a PS5 console beside a sign with the Argos logo, offering a deal that seems too good to be true. The offer even mentions that these are “leftovers” from trade shows and that the consoles are in perfect condition.
However, this offer is not real. A spokesperson for Argos confirmed that the claim was false. Despite this, similar posts have appeared over the past few months, tricking many into clicking on the link and falling victim to scams.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the “Argos PS5 £1.78” scam, why it’s spreading, and how you can avoid falling for similar fraudulent deals in the future. We’ll also examine the common signs of fake offers and provide some advice on how to shop smartly online.
What is the “Argos PS5 £1.78” Scam?
The Claim: PS5 Consoles for £1.78
The Facebook post in question alleges that Argos is selling PlayStation 5 consoles at an unbelievably low price of £1.78. The post further claims that these PS5 units are leftover stock from trade shows and have minor box damage, but are in “perfect condition.” It goes on to say that these units come with a 24-month manufacturer’s guarantee, making it sound like a great deal.
In the image attached to the post, a man is seen holding a PS5 console next to a sign that appears to show the Argos logo, with the £1.78 price tag. The image gives the impression that this is a legitimate sale at Argos, creating a sense of urgency to click and purchase.
The Truth Behind the Offer
However, this deal is entirely fake. Argos has confirmed that it is not offering PS5 consoles for such a low price. The company issued a statement calling the post a scam and advised people not to click on any links associated with it. The Facebook post even links to an unrelated article on Euronews, titled “E-commerce wars: Could Temu overtake fast fashion giant Shein?” This type of redirect is a common tactic used by scammers to drive traffic to irrelevant or harmful websites.
Why Do Fake Offers Like This Spread So Quickly?
The Appeal of Unbelievably Low Prices
One of the primary reasons this scam works so well is the appeal of an incredibly low price. PS5 consoles are in high demand, and their retail prices are typically around £400 or more. A PS5 being offered for just £1.78 is an obvious red flag, but the excitement of the offer often clouds people’s judgment.
Scammers prey on this impulse, capitalizing on the desire to snag an amazing deal. Social media platforms like Facebook are particularly effective for spreading such scams because they often exploit trust in seemingly credible sources, like popular brands or familiar logos.
Fake Offers Are Common on Social Media
This particular scam is not isolated. Fake offers and fraudulent deals are prevalent on social media, where scammers frequently target users with enticing but deceptive deals. Whether it’s air fryers, mattresses, laptops, or even gaming consoles like the PS5, posts that seem “too good to be true” often are.
To illustrate, similar scams have been spotted in the past offering PS5 consoles, air fryers, and more, all with enticing, unrealistic prices. They often include doctored images and false claims about the items’ condition or origin, making them look legitimate at first glance.
Clickbait Tactics
The post in question includes a “Click Now” or “Book Now” link, which is a common clickbait tactic. Clicking the link often leads users to irrelevant content or malicious websites designed to gather personal information or make a profit through misleading ads.
Using Trustworthy Sources to Spot Scams
One of the easiest ways to spot a scam is to check whether the deal is coming from a verified or official source. Argos, like other legitimate retailers, has a verified Facebook page and website. When considering an offer, ensure it comes from the official channels.
How to Spot Fake Offers on Social Media
Check for Verified Accounts
If a deal is legitimate, it is highly likely to be shared by the official account of the company involved. Look for blue verification ticks next to the company’s name. This helps confirm that the account is genuine and not an imposter.
Look for Red Flags in the Post
Fake deals often have several telltale signs:
- Unrealistic prices: If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. A PS5 for £1.78, for instance, is far below the typical market price.
- Urgency: Posts that pressure you to act quickly often indicate a scam. Scammers try to create a sense of urgency to get you to act impulsively.
- Unprofessional language or images: Poor grammar, blurry images, or strange formatting can be a sign of a fraudulent post.
- Unrelated links: If the post redirects you to a website unrelated to the retailer or product, it’s likely a scam.
Verify the Website URL
Check the URL of the website you’re directed to. Genuine retailers like Argos will have a secure (https://) and official domain, such as argos.co.uk. If the link takes you to a suspicious or unrelated domain, do not click it.
How to Safely Shop for PS5 Consoles
Visit Trusted Retailers
When shopping for high-demand items like the PS5, stick to reputable retailers. Argos is one of the trusted UK retailers where you can purchase PS5 consoles. Ensure you’re visiting the official website, and double-check any promotional offers.
Watch Out for Deals on Resale Platforms
Although it’s possible to find good deals on resale platforms like eBay or Facebook Marketplace, exercise caution. Sellers on these platforms may offer discounted PS5 consoles, but it’s essential to research their reputation before making a purchase. Look for reviews and check whether the seller offers guarantees or return options.
Set Price Alerts
If you’re struggling to find a PS5 at retail price, consider setting up price alerts through trusted price comparison websites or apps. This way, you can be notified when a legitimate deal becomes available, without falling victim to a scam.
Conclusion: Stay Safe and Avoid Scams
The “Argos PS5 for £1.78” scam is a perfect example of how easily fake deals can spread on social media. By understanding how these scams work and knowing the warning signs, you can protect yourself from falling victim to online fraud. Always verify the source of any deal and be cautious when something seems too good to be true.
While it’s always tempting to grab a great bargain, the best way to avoid getting scammed is to shop through trusted, verified retailers and use common sense when browsing online.
FAQs
What should I do if I clicked on a fraudulent link?
If you clicked on a fraudulent link, it’s important to run a security scan on your device immediately. Be cautious of any prompts asking for personal information. If you’ve shared sensitive data, consider changing your passwords and monitoring your bank statements.
How can I contact Argos if I’ve been affected by a scam?
If you believe you’ve fallen victim to a scam involving Argos, you can contact their customer service through their official website or social media channels. They can provide assistance and help you report the incident.
Are there any other common scams I should watch out for?
Other common scams include fake offers for air fryers, mattresses, smartphones, and laptops. Always be wary of posts offering items at unreasonably low prices or redirecting you to unfamiliar websites.
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