A Cuban resident in the United States used her TikTok account to warn migrants in the U.S. about a scam that, she claims, affects those who purchase appliances and motor equipment to send to their relatives on the Island.
"This video is being made for Cubans here in the United States who buy things for their relatives in Cuba. They are being scammed left and right," the woman stated, claiming to be engaged in the sale of appliances, tricycles, and scooters in Holguín, Bayamo, Las Tunas, and other nearby municipalities.
The seller explained that scammers use the phone numbers of family members in Cuba to access their WhatsApp accounts and impersonate them to their relatives in the United States. Once they gain their trust, they claim that the merchandise has already been delivered and request a money transfer, thereby completing the fraud.
"They take advantage of the fact that many people in Cuba don't know much about the Internet. With a code, they access the WhatsApp of a family member, and from there, they deceive the person here in the United States. They tell them that the equipment has arrived and that they can transfer money, and that’s where the scam happens,” she warned.
The young woman insisted that her clients should never pay upfront and recommended confirming via video call with relatives in Cuba that the items were delivered before making any money transfer.
"I know the sacrifices one makes here to earn 200 or 300 dollars. What they are doing is an abuse. That's why I always tell my clients to communicate with their family members, and only when they are completely sure that the equipment is in their home, then they can transfer the money to me. Nothing in advance, absolutely nothing," he emphasized.
The report adds to other alerts from Cubans regarding the increase in fraud related to the sale of items through social media, a growing sector due to the economic crisis on the Island and the rising reliance of many households on support from relatives abroad.
Frequently Asked Questions about Frauds and Relationships between Cubans Abroad and on the Island
How do scams related to the shipping of appliances to Cuba operate?
Scammers access the WhatsApp accounts of relatives in Cuba and impersonate them to deceive their family members abroad, claiming that the goods have been delivered and requesting money transfers. It is crucial to confirm the delivery through video calls before making any payments.
What measures can be taken to avoid becoming a victim of this type of fraud?
To avoid falling victim to fraud, never pay in advance. It is recommended to confirm via video call with family in Cuba that the items were delivered before making any money transfer.
What is the emotional and economic relationship between emigrated Cubans and their families on the island?
The relationship tends to be tense due to economic expectations. Many emigrants feel pressured to send money and face criticism if they cannot do so, while in Cuba it is perceived that the support is insufficient due to the economic crisis on the island.
What advice do Cuban emigrants give about maintaining long-distance family relationships?
Many Cubans abroad recommend maintaining physical distance to preserve harmony. Bringing family members to live abroad can lead to conflicts due to unrealistic expectations about work and life overseas.
Filed under:
