NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Free money from Zelle or Cash App—just for filling out a government form? That’s what some TikTok videos claim. But Consumer Reports has a warning: it’s not a windfall—it’s simply not true.
Victims of scams on peer-to-peer payment platforms, like Zelle or Cash App, may try anything to get their money back. Enter Daraine Delevante and Gilbert Graim Jr., two social media influencers who have racked up millions of views, incorrectly claiming that filing a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau will get you a payout from these companies, even claiming you can be compensated even if you weren't a scam victim.
They make it sound easy: even offering complaint templates for 77-dollars and things like a credit repair guide for $24.99.
Consumer Reports Investigative Reporter, Derek Kravitz, explains, “With the CFPB losing funding, there’s just not as much oversight right now, and these influencers are jumping on that, going after people who are already struggling financially.”
After publication, Gilbert Graim Jr. said in a statement that Consumer Reports had taken his words "completely out of context" and, while some people "may have interpreted my video as encouraging fraudulent claims," he would never encourage them to lie.
He added that he does not sell any product or endorse the sale of any product that would lead to the filing of consumer complaints, and that, while he shares complaint templates with his followers, he does not directly sell them.
Delevante says Cash App and Zelle are unfairly targeting him to divert attention away from their own shortcomings in combating online fraud and scams.
Consumer Reports advises that if you bought their financial products or followed their advice, definitely consider filing complaints with the CFPB, the FTC, and your state attorney general.
Zelle says, “Consumers were duped through social media into filing complaints based on a fabricated settlement,” while Cash App says it has “made significant improvements to how we identify and act on customer complaints.”
CR has tips to keep you safe from payment platform scams:
Be skeptical of posts promising easy money—scammers use urgency and emotion to trick you.
Before sending money online, slow down. Double-check who you're paying and what you’re paying for.
CR also recommends that when filing a complaint, you include dates, amounts, and bank statements—specifics strengthen your case.
Do you have more information about this story? You can email me at jennifer.kraus@newschannel5.com.
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