00:06 It's that time of year again 00:07 People begin posting about the Secret Sister Gift Exchange that promises participants will receive up to 36 gifts in exchange for sending just one. 00:16 It seems to be along the same lines as a Secret Santa, except it's with social media." 00:22 But it's a scam -- and it's illegal. 00:25 It's similar to a chain letter or even a pyramid scheme. Some may receive gifts, 00:30 but for everyone to receive what they've been promised, new recruits must constantly join the group. 00:35 It’s mathematically impossible to sustain. 00:38 Here's what you should do when someone promises you a bounty of gifts by mail, email, or social media: 00:44 Ignore it. Pyramid schemes and their promise of big returns are illegal. 00:49 Report social media posts to protect others. 00:51 Never give your personal information to strangers. This will open you up to identity theft and other scams. 00:57 For more information on scams, visit USPIS.gov.