A Deltona resident fell victim to an online scam promising a free Tesla Cybertruck and $30,000 in cash, losing $900 to a fraudster posing as Elon Musk. Volusia County Sheriff's deputies are investigating the incident reported on October 22. The scam unfolded over social media and messaging apps, highlighting risks in viral vehicle giveaways.
On Sunday, October 19, a Deltona man completed an online form on Facebook advertising a sweepstakes to win a Tesla Cybertruck and $30,000 in cash. The following day, Monday, October 20, he began communicating via WhatsApp with an individual who claimed to be Elon Musk. Deputies reported that the scammer instructed the victim to purchase an Apple gift card valued at $900 and share the card's numbers through the app.
The victim sent the gift card information but soon suspected foul play and contacted authorities. He reported the fraud to Volusia sheriff's deputies around 2:50 p.m. on Wednesday, October 22. According to the sheriff's office summary, the impersonator used the raffle lure to extract the payment, a common tactic in online scams targeting high-value prizes like electric vehicles.
This incident underscores the growing prevalence of fraud schemes exploiting enthusiasm for Tesla products, particularly the distinctive Cybertruck. Authorities have not released the victim's identity or details on the scammer's location, but the case is under active investigation. No arrests have been made as of the latest reports.
Volusia County Sheriff's Office advises caution with unsolicited online offers, recommending verification through official channels before any financial transactions. Similar scams involving fake celebrity endorsements have surged with the popularity of electric vehicles, preying on hopeful participants in social media promotions.