Car ownership comes with a hefty price tag, from gas and insurance to maintenance and repairs. The idea of offsetting some of these costs by simply driving your car, something you’re already doing, while displaying advertisements can be very appealing. Programs like the “Sysco Car Decal Promotion Program” might sound like a legitimate way to earn extra income. However, it’s crucial to approach such opportunities with caution, as the promise of easy money can sometimes be a red flag for scams.
The allure of getting paid for car advertising is understandable. Imagine receiving a weekly payment just for having a decal on your vehicle promoting a well-known brand like Sysco. Scammers exploit this desire for extra income by sending unsolicited emails or online ads with phrases like “Get Paid to Drive!” These deceptive offers often promise substantial weekly earnings, ranging from $250 to $350, for wrapping your car with advertisements for popular companies or even major events.
The scam unfolds when you express interest. Victims are typically sent a check, often for an amount exceeding the initial agreed payment. Along with the check, instructions are provided to deposit it into their bank account. Crucially, they are then instructed to use a portion of these funds to pay a supposed “specialist” who will handle the car decal installation. The scammers often pressure victims to send payment quickly via methods like money orders, Walmart money services, or direct cash deposits into the “specialist’s” bank account. These payment methods are favored by scammers because they are difficult to trace and nearly impossible to reverse.
The deception becomes apparent when the promised car decals never materialize, and the “specialist” becomes unreachable. Victims realize they have been communicating with the scammer directly. Adding to the financial damage, the check they deposited bounces, as it is counterfeit. The bank then deducts the amount of the fake check from the victim’s account, resulting in a double loss: the money sent to the scammer and the amount deducted by the bank.
To protect yourself from car wrap scams, be extremely wary of unsolicited offers that seem too good to be true. Legitimate car advertising programs exist, but they typically involve established marketing companies and transparent processes. If you encounter a “Sysco car decal promotion program” or similar offer, conduct thorough research. Verify the legitimacy of the company offering the program. Never pay upfront for any service related to car wrapping, and be suspicious of checks for amounts greater than expected, along with instructions to send a portion of the funds elsewhere. If you suspect a scam, report it to the Federal Trade Commission at FTC.gov/complaint to help protect yourself and others from falling victim to these deceptive schemes.
