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James
The $11 TikTok Flash Drive That’s Erasing People’s Memories
In the fast-paced world of social media shopping, TikTok Shop has quickly become a marketplace filled with impulse buys and “miracle” gadgets. But buried beneath the flash sales and slick videos is a dangerous trend of counterfeit tech products—none more heartbreaking than the now-viral 4-in-1 USB flash drive sold by multiple sellers for as little as $11.
This particular drive is advertised as a “1TB” or “1000GB” plug-and-play device compatible with every platform—iPhone, Android, iPad, Mac, and PC. But once buyers plug it in, the promise of easy storage turns into a nightmare. People are losing priceless photos, family videos, and documents, with no chance of recovery.
It Says 1TB. But It’s a Lie.
One of the most glaring red flags appears the moment users plug the drive into their device—it shows as “1.1TB” capacity. That number might look impressive, but it’s a major indicator of a spoofed firmware scam.
These fake drives use a manipulated controller chip to display a false capacity. In reality, many of these drives only contain 8GB or 16GB of actual storage. Once that limit is reached, any new files written to the drive begin overwriting old ones—corrupting data silently. Files appear to save properly until you try to open them… and realize they’re gone forever.
Real Stories. Real Loss.
Over a hundred 1-star reviews tell the same story:
- The drive overheats and stops working.
- It cannot be recognized by iPhones or PCs.
- It requires a third-party app (often not in the App Store or Play Store).
- Once full, it erases or corrupts everything stored on it.
One of the most heartbreaking reviews comes from a grieving parent:
“After downloading 2,400 pictures and videos of my terminally ill son, this stopped responding and got hot. Now it won’t let me transfer anything on or off.”
Another user shared that their drive crashed while attempting to back up important wedding and baby videos—content that can’t be replaced.
So Why So Many Good Reviews? Aren’t They Verified?
Yes—many reviews show “Verified Purchase” badges. But here’s the truth: those don’t mean the review is real or honest.
Here’s why:
- Sellers offer partial refunds or incentives in exchange for a 5-star rating.
- Influencers and affiliate marketers are given free or discounted products in exchange for positive reviews.
- Some sellers use bot accounts to flood the product listing with fake reviews as soon as it’s posted, burying the bad reviews below hundreds of generic “Works great!” comments.
If you dig deeper into the positive reviews, you’ll often notice vague language, no product images, and no details about usage—because many of them never used the drive.
The App Is Just As Suspicious
In many cases, buyers are instructed to scan a QR code that leads them to a foreign app, often written in Chinese, with poor translations or suspicious permissions. Some apps requested credit card info just to register. Others didn’t load at all, leaving the drive unusable.
Several reviewers reported that the app didn’t appear at all in their region, or that once installed, it crashed instantly. With no way to access the drive, they were left holding a piece of plastic and shattered expectations.
The Emotional Toll Is Far Greater Than the Price Tag
What makes this scam so despicable isn’t just the technical manipulation—it’s the emotional damage. People are trusting these drives with irreplaceable memories: final videos of lost loved ones, years of family photos, graduation videos, baby pictures.
One user wrote:
“It worked great at first, then on the second use, it deleted everything. The drive now shows 0 memory.”
Another:
“Downloaded the app, transferred all my files, and now they’re gone. I feel sick. These were photos of my brother who passed away.”
The Bigger Problem: TikTok’s Role in Enabling This
TikTok Shop continues to promote these items to millions of users without verifying product legitimacy. Creators unknowingly endorse them, often earning commissions from each sale. TikTok’s algorithm pushes high-performing listings—regardless of the hidden damage they cause.
It’s time platforms take responsibility for filtering dangerous, deceptive tech from their storefronts.
What You Need to Know to Stay Safe
- No legitimate 1TB flash drive costs $11. A real 1TB USB drive from brands like Samsung or SanDisk typically costs between $60–$120.
- Always test new drives using tools like ValiDrive or H2testw, which reveal the actual writable storage.
- Avoid any product requiring a shady third-party app, especially if it requests permissions unrelated to file transfers.
- Read the 1-star reviews—not just the 5-stars. The real story is often buried there.
- Back up your data properly. Cloud services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or iCloud are far safer than mystery-brand hardware.
Final Thoughts
This TikTok flash drive is more than just a rip-off. It’s a trap that targets people looking for convenience and affordability—and punishes them with irreversible loss. And while it may only cost $11, the emotional cost is often devastating.
If you’ve already bought one, stop using it immediately. If your files are still intact, transfer them to a secure location before it’s too late.
And if you’re reading this before clicking “Add to Cart,” don’t do it. There are far safer, more reliable options.
Don’t trust viral tech just because it looks good in a video.
If you’re unsure what storage devices are safe or you need guidance on how to protect your files, I offer honest, free advice with no strings attached. Whether you need help choosing a drive or setting up backups, I’m here to help you stay safe and informed.
Because your memories deserve better than a $11 scam stick.
The EATOP Flash Drive Scam: An Investigative Look at the Viral Fraud Taking Over TikTok
In the ever-evolving landscape of online shopping, scams have become more sophisticated — and more viral. One such product that has sparked massive controversy is the EATOP “1TB” Flash Drive, heavily promoted on TikTok Shop by affiliate creators claiming it can store massive amounts of data and plug directly into your phone. The problem? It’s almost entirely fake — and we’ve got the receipts to prove it.
This isn’t just another tech product with exaggerated claims. This is a coordinated scam, one that’s been duping buyers by spoofing flash drive firmware to falsely report high capacities to your phone or computer, when in reality, the drive is often just 32GB or 64GB. And once it hits its real capacity, it starts overwriting your data, leading to massive corruption or complete data loss.
How the Scam Works
The scam begins with a TikTok video that feels familiar: an upbeat creator shows a tiny USB-C or Lightning flash drive, claiming it holds 1TB of video or 5 hours of HD content, and plugs right into your phone. They say it’s great for photographers, parents storing videos, or anyone who needs to “free up space” on their iPhone.
But the trick lies deep within the drive’s firmware — the software that tells your phone or computer how much capacity the drive has. The scammers use a process called firmware spoofing to make a 64GB (or even 16GB) flash drive report as 1TB.
When users plug the drive in, it appears to have the full 1TB capacity. Files copy normally — at first. But once the actual physical limit is hit, the drive starts writing over itself, silently corrupting old data without warning.
ValiDrive Testing Reveals the Truth
Multiple users have run these drives through tools like ValiDrive, a free program designed to test actual storage capacity. Time and time again, EATOP’s drives fail.
“People have run ValiDrive on the 1TB EATOP drive, and it shows the true capacity is 128GB,” one TikTok commenter explained. “They spoof the firmware to show 1TB when you plug it in — but it can’t hold that much.”
Others chimed in with similar stories, noting that once the drive is full, existing files get overwritten, leading to total data corruption. This is not just misleading advertising — it’s data sabotage.
The TikTok Affiliate Machine Fuels the Scam
Perhaps the most disturbing part of this story is how TikTok Shop itself has become a breeding ground for these scams. Creators — many of whom don’t even know the drives are fake — are encouraged to promote them for a commission.
The most successful videos rack up hundreds of thousands of views, often from creators who look trustworthy, professional, and helpful. Some genuinely believe in the product; others are simply chasing viral affiliate earnings, and refuse to acknowledge mounting evidence that the drives are fraudulent.
Even when commenters try to warn others, creators often delete or block them, silencing the truth to keep commissions flowing.
“I just commented something similar on another video,” one user said. “I was told I was hating on small businesses and had my comment deleted.”
TikTok’s Lack of Moderation and Consumer Protections
Despite repeated reports and TikTok’s awareness of these scams (as some are now being tagged “Creator earns commission”), the platform has not removed these listings. TikTok Shop has no public vetting process for storage tech, which means anyone can list spoofed tech and sell it by the thousands.
This leaves the burden of truth on consumers, and many don’t realize the scam until it’s too late — especially when they trust the creators promoting it.
And once it fails, returns are often denied, or buyers are gaslit with generic support responses.
Real Buyer Reviews Tell the Story
Look no further than the reviews to see the damage:
- “Everything was ok, but the next day it froze. I can’t even turn it off to restart.”
- “I plugged it in for hours… didn’t keep a charge, didn’t store data, just wasted money.”
- “It came with scratches and looked used. Very disappointed.”
- “The rear camera is upside down. Instructions make no sense. This is terrible.”
- “The quality is garbage. You can’t even store full HD files — it’s painfully slow.”
Many of these buyers thought they were getting a deal on a 1TB drive for under $30. But no real 1TB flash drive exists at that price. In fact, a reputable USB 3.1 1TB flash drive from Samsung or SanDisk costs over $100 — for good reason.
This Isn’t the First Flash Drive Scam
The EATOP scam mirrors a long-running tactic used on shady eBay and Amazon listings, where similar spoofed drives were marketed under different names. What’s new is the mass adoption of TikTok Shop, which allows creators to embed affiliate links directly in their videos — enabling scams to scale faster than ever before.
Many of these flash drives come from the same factory, rebranded for different sellers. The packaging may differ, but the internals are the same: spoofed firmware and low-quality chips.
How to Spot a Fake Drive
Here are the biggest red flags:
- Too good to be true: 1TB flash drives for under $30? Instantly suspicious.
- No official brand site: EATOP has no legitimate corporate presence.
- Low-speed USB ports: Often still USB 2.0 or slow 3.0 interfaces.
- “Plug and Play” claims with no mention of file system format or app support.
- Generic packaging and missing documentation.
If you’re unsure, always test with H2testw or ValiDrive before trusting any important data to it.
Let’s Be Clear: This is Fraud
This is not just a case of exaggerated marketing. This is deliberate deception via manipulated software. Selling a product that intentionally misrepresents its core function — and leads to data loss — is consumer fraud, plain and simple.
You Deserve Better: Honest Advice from Someone Who Cares
As someone who has years of experience in e-commerce and tech, let me say this:
You don’t need to fall for scams like this.
If you’re just starting your journey in online shopping, e-commerce, or content creation, I offer free advice. No upsells, no fake promises — just guidance that works.
I can help you:
- Choose reliable platforms to buy from
- Identify legitimate tech brands
- Validate your own product ideas
- Even help you launch your own private label store
Dream of selling custom tech, your own coffee, or even launching a clothing brand with your name on it? All of that is real — and possible. But it starts with integrity, research, and product testing.
Don’t resell junk. Build a brand you’re proud of.
Buy samples. Try the product. Test it yourself. And most importantly — don’t promise features a product can’t deliver. That’s how you build a name that customers trust.
Final Thoughts: Fight Back with the Truth
This scam continues because too few speak up. If you’ve been affected by this, leave an honest review. Share your experience. Warn others. Platforms like TikTok need to take responsibility — but in the meantime, the truth starts with us.
Let’s build something real. Let’s protect each other.
And if you ever need help starting something authentic — I’m here.
$9,000 for a 56-Page PDF: The Alarming Rise of Fake Dropshipping Gurus
In the world of e-commerce, ambition often meets opportunity—but sometimes, it crashes headfirst into deception. A recent viral post on Reddit’s r/dropshipping shed light on a devastating cautionary tale: a man with no online selling experience paid $9,000 to a self-proclaimed dropshipping “guru” and received little more than a glorified PDF and an upsell pitch for a $15,000 mentorship.
The man reportedly quit his job with $10,000 in savings after being sold on a dream—one curated by an Instagram influencer with over 150,000 followers and a promise of instant success. Instead of a step-by-step training or hands-on guidance, he received a 56-page document with no live support, no assistance, and no tangible instructions on how to even set up a Shopify store or run Meta ads.
Then Came the $15K Upsell
Shockingly, the course served as a mere gateway to another offer: a one-on-one mentorship for $15,000. That’s the kind of budget six-figure DTC brands use for monthly advertising—not something a beginner should be asked to fork over without proven results. The guru used slick sales tactics and the allure of personal coaching to bait further investment, exploiting the buyer’s vulnerability.
Community Outrage and Legal Questions
Outraged, the victim took to Facebook, where the post gained traction quickly. Supporters expressed sympathy, and some encouraged him to take legal action against the guru. Whether or not that’s possible depends on the terms of sale and the jurisdiction—but it raises broader concerns about the unregulated nature of online “mentorship” and self-branded gurus.
One Reddit commenter put it bluntly:
“$9k is enough to validate 3 product ideas, set up stores, test creatives on Meta ads, and even hire a marketer for $1k/month. That money could’ve launched a real business—not paid for a glorified brochure.”
The Harsh Truth About Online Business Gurus
This story isn’t an anomaly—it’s part of a growing trend. Scammers prey on aspiring entrepreneurs using the veneer of success: luxury cars, vacation backdrops, paid followers, and high-production videos. They pitch overpriced courses that promise financial freedom but deliver outdated material or vague advice.
What makes this worse is that these scams are often perpetuated on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook, where social proof (likes, comments, followers) can be easily faked. Inexperienced buyers don’t realize they’re walking into a well-staged trap.
Here’s the Truth: You Don’t Need to Spend Thousands
As someone who has years of experience in e-commerce, I want to speak directly to those who feel discouraged after reading stories like this: you can do this, and you don’t have to go broke trying. If you’re just starting out, I offer FREE advice—no catch, no upsell, just real help from someone who genuinely wants to see you succeed.
I can help you:
- Choose low-cost platforms to launch your store
- Validate product ideas
- Connect with legitimate manufacturers
- Discover opportunities to white label your own brand
Ever dreamed of launching your own clothing line with your name on the tag? You can. Want to sell premium coffee under your own brand? That’s doable. How about creating your own line of custom MagSafe phone cases? 100% possible.
But here’s the part that no guru selling dreams will tell you: you need to plan your brand. Don’t just jump into dropshipping random trending products and hope for the best. Research what you’re selling. Buy samples. Test the quality. See if the product actually performs. If it doesn’t, don’t sell it.
That’s how you build a reputable brand—with honesty and care.
Never promise what your product can’t deliver. One of the worst offenders of this kind of false marketing is the infamous Magic John, who I’ve written several articles about. His products routinely fall short of the wild claims made in videos and ads, and customers are left disappointed, if not outright scammed.
Final Word
If you’re just starting out, I’m here to help. I’m not selling you anything—I’m offering you a hand up, because I know how overwhelming it can be to enter this space. You deserve transparency, integrity, and guidance that doesn’t come with a $9,000 price tag.
Don’t fall for the scams. There are professionals—like myself—who will give you real, up-to-date, honest advice at no cost. If you’re serious about building a lasting brand, not just chasing overnight money, I’m here to support you every step of the way.
Let’s build something real.
Not Sure If You’ve Got What It Takes? Read This.
If you’re reading this, there’s a good chance you’re thinking about starting a career in law enforcement, corrections, or another public safety role. And maybe you’re feeling a little unsure, anxious—even afraid.
That’s completely normal.
Almost everyone is scared to start. I was too.
But I’m here to tell you: you’re more capable than you realize—and the reward on the other side is worth every step of the journey.
You’re Not Doing This Alone
One of the biggest misconceptions people have when they first consider this line of work is that you’re out there by yourself, facing everything alone.
That couldn’t be further from the truth.
In this field, you work as part of a team. You train as a team. You move as a unit. You always have someone you can call for backup—whether it’s during a tense situation or a routine check. You are never expected to handle everything on your own, and you’re never left to fend for yourself.
You’ll learn how to communicate with your team effectively, how to cover each other, how to respond together, and how to trust the people around you to do the same for you. That support is what builds confidence—and that confidence is what keeps you sharp and safe.
You Are the Authority
If you’re headed into corrections, you may be worried about dealing with inmates. That’s a common fear, especially for first-timers. But here’s something you need to lock into your mindset from day one:
You are the authority. Not them.
You’ll be trained to take control of situations with confidence, composure, and respect. Inmates may test boundaries, but they don’t run the facility—you and your team do. You’ll learn how to de-escalate situations, how to stay in control, and how to command respect without ever having to raise your voice.
You’re not going in there to intimidate anyone—but you’re also not there to be intimidated. You are trained. You are prepared. And you are backed by policy, law, and your fellow officers.
And let’s be clear about something that often gets overlooked:
Correctional officers are law enforcement officers.
You are officially recognized as a peace officer, and your position carries legal weight. The same laws that protect police officers in the line of duty also protect you. That includes protection against threats, harassment, or violence while performing your job.
You’re not “just a guard.” You’re a vital part of the criminal justice system—and your badge, your training, and your authority reflect that.
It’s Not Just a Job—It’s a Foundation for Life
What you’re stepping into is so much more than a job. It’s a career that builds you up while letting you serve others. It’s a path that gives you real purpose and tangible rewards.
Let’s talk about those rewards for a second:
- Health insurance that covers you and your loved ones
- Dental and vision benefits that protect your long-term well-being
- Life insurance that gives your family peace of mind
- Pensions and retirement plans like a 401K, so you can actually enjoy your later years
- Job stability in a world where many jobs aren’t guaranteed
It’s a career that sets you—and your family—up for success. You’ll be able to pay your bills, build a home, save for the future, and take care of those who depend on you.
That kind of security? It’s rare these days. And it’s right in front of you—if you’re willing to reach for it.
What to Tell Yourself When Doubt Creeps In
Fear will whisper in your ear. Doubt will try to convince you you’re not tough enough, not smart enough, not ready.
Here’s what you do:
Tell yourself you can. Every single time.
Even if you don’t believe it yet—say it until you do.
Because confidence doesn’t come first—action does.
Once you take that first step—into the classroom, onto the training mat, through that first drill—you’ll start to see who you really are. And you’ll realize that the person who thought they couldn’t… just did.
I’d Still Do It All Over Again
I went through the pepper spray. I went through the physical training, the long classroom hours, the mental challenges. And if I had to? I’d do it again tomorrow.
Because even though I haven’t officially started my career as a correctional officer yet, I’m right on the edge—I’m just waiting on the call that confirms it. And everything I’ve done up to this point has led me here. The discipline, the training, the knowledge—it’s all part of what I’m becoming. And I’m proud of that.
If you’re still wondering if you’ve got what it takes, let me end with this:
You do.
You’re stronger than you think.
You’re more capable than you realize.
And you’re absolutely not alone.
So stop telling yourself why you can’t—and start proving to yourself that you can.
Go for it.
You won’t regret it.
My Homeland Security Training Experience (And Why It Was Worth It)
In 2008, I made the decision to pursue a career in protection and security. I entered homeland security training with the goal of becoming a certified protection officer through the International Foundation for Protection Officers (IFPO). What followed was one of the most intense, rewarding, and eye-opening chapters of my life—and it changed how I viewed safety, discipline, and responsibility forever.
I’m sharing this story today because I know how nerve-racking it can be when you’re staring down the path of academy training, especially if you’re new to the field. Whether you’re looking into corrections, security, or law enforcement, the anxiety is real. And if you’re anything like a certain someone close to me (you know who you are), the thought of getting pepper sprayed or tased is enough to make you question whether it’s all worth it.
Let me say this clearly: it is.
Classroom Training: The Foundation of Protection
The training I went through was about six months total, which was considered early compared to many others in my class. The first part was classroom-based, and honestly, it was one of the most valuable parts of the entire journey. You learn more than just procedures—you’re trained to think, observe, assess, and act.
Some of the major things we studied included:
- Threat assessment
Understanding how to identify potential threats before they escalate. This includes reading body language, identifying suspicious behavior, and knowing how to de-escalate a situation before it becomes dangerous. - Use of force continuum
Learning the appropriate level of force based on the threat level. When to use verbal commands, when to go hands-on, and when to escalate further—if necessary. - Legal responsibilities
You’re taught exactly what your role allows you to do within the law, and more importantly, what not to do. There’s a legal and ethical weight to every action you take, and you’re expected to uphold that standard every day. - Mental preparedness
Situational awareness is drilled into you. You have to know your environment, your exits, your blind spots, and your limits. You also learn how to stay calm in high-stress moments, which could be the difference between saving a life or losing one. - Emergency response
Medical emergencies, fires, active threats—you train to be the calm in the storm, not the panic in the room.
One of the first things we were taught—something that stuck with me—is this:
“If you can’t help yourself, you can’t help anyone else.”
That might sound selfish at first, but it’s the opposite. If you rush into danger recklessly, without thinking, you become a liability. An injured officer, or worse, a fallen one, is someone who can’t assist their team or protect the people they’re responsible for.
Real-World Situations Where That Matters
- Responding to a violent fight
You don’t just charge in swinging. You assess—who’s involved, is there a weapon, can verbal commands work, is backup available? Running in blind gets you hurt, and now your team has two people to rescue. - Active shooter scenario
You’re trained to take cover, secure the area, and respond with precision. Charging in without a plan gets you killed—and it puts others in more danger. - Medical emergencies
Even in non-violent situations, rushing in without PPE or gloves could expose you to diseases or hazardous materials. Protect yourself first, so you can provide aid safely and effectively.
That philosophy isn’t about fear—it’s about readiness. It’s about being smart, so you can be effective.
Field Training: Where It Gets Physical
After the classroom, things get real. You move on to field training, and that’s where the physical part kicks in.
We trained in defensive jujitsu, hand-to-hand combat, disarming techniques, and suspect control. Everything we did had a real-world focus. The rubber knives and training weapons we used were designed to feel like the real thing—same size, same weight. You treat every scenario like it’s live.
Yes, the drills are controlled, but they aren’t easy. You’re being pushed to react under pressure—how fast can you disarm someone? How do you break a wrist hold? How do you get someone to the ground without causing unnecessary harm?
Your reflexes improve. Your instincts sharpen. And your confidence? That grows more than anything.
The Pepper Spray Gauntlet
Now let’s talk about the elephant in the room—pepper spray.
It’s a rite of passage. When I went through it, we all had to line up outside. The instructor told us to stand tall, eyes open, and keep our focus. Then—bam. MK9 riot control spray to the face.
Instant agony.
My face burned for a solid week. I won’t sugarcoat that. But you learn that you can function through pain. You learn that your body can push through even when your brain says no. That kind of resilience is critical in corrections and law enforcement.
Because in real life, there’s no “pause” button. You can’t give up when it hurts. You have to get the job done. The training gives you that edge.
Why I’d Do It All Over Again
Despite the pain, the sweat, the stress—I loved every second of that training. It shaped me. It gave me tools that I still carry today. And now, as I look ahead at the possibility of joining a correctional officer academy, I’m not anxious—I’m excited. I know what I’m walking into, and I know I’m ready.
To anyone considering this career—especially those who might be nervous about the intensity of training—don’t let fear be the thing that stops you. You’re not alone. Most of us were nervous going in. But with every day of training, that fear gets replaced by knowledge, discipline, and strength.
Short-term pain.
Long-term gain.
It’s worth it.
From Code to Corrections: A New Chapter in the Works
For nearly two decades, I’ve been building websites, CMS platforms, plugins, and web applications for clients and causes I believe in. Web development has been a constant in my life — both as a creative outlet and a professional skillset.
But recently, I’ve felt called to pursue something I’ve quietly prepared for over the years: a career in public service.
I recently interviewed for a Corrections Officer position — a role that aligns with my early training in security enforcement and my personal values around discipline, structure, and service. If I’m offered the position, it will mark a major shift in my day-to-day, but not the end of the road for my work in web development.
Hamelton.dev will continue to exist. The projects I’ve built, the tools I’ve shared, and the knowledge I’ve gained don’t go away just because I’m shifting gears. Whether I’m behind a screen or in a uniform, I’ll still be solving problems, building systems, and using my experience to serve with integrity.
Thanks for being part of my journey. I’ll share more when I can.
— James Hamelton Jr.
Beware of the Dash Cam Scam Flooding TikTok: What Buyers Are Really Getting
In recent months, TikTok users have been bombarded with viral dash cam videos—many showing near misses, outrageous road rage incidents, or dramatic crashes—overlaid with captions like “This camera saved me in court” or “Every driver needs this in 2025.” These clips are commonly tied to TikTok Shop links, prompting viewers to purchase dash cams that supposedly offer high-definition recording, motion sensors, and even rear-facing cameras—all for a suspiciously low price.
What most viewers don’t realize is that these dash cam videos have often been lifted from YouTube channels, police footage, or other creators who never gave consent. And the product being advertised? It’s frequently a subpar or defective knockoff being sold under misleading pretenses.
A Marketing Trap Disguised as Urgency
The influencer-led promotions use urgency and fear-based tactics: “Insurance is too expensive to risk it without a camera,” they’ll say. Some sellers go live for hours, looping the same car crash footage to push sales in real time. On the surface, it looks convincing. But dig deeper into the product page’s review section, and the truth becomes evident.
What Real Buyers Are Saying
Here are just a few actual verified reviews from frustrated customers who fell for the dash cam hype:
- “Everything was ok but suddenly next day froze, I can’t even turn it off to restart.” (1-star review, Nov 2024)
- “A piece of crap! I plugged it in for hours… it didn’t keep charge, didn’t turn on.” (1-star review, July 2024)
- “The instructions are not understandable. Rear camera was upside down. There wasn’t even plastic over the lens when it came!” (1-star review, July 2024)
- “Camera didn’t work; had to return it. Definitely not worth protecting anything.” (1-star review, Dec 2024)
- “When the package arrived, I noticed SEVERAL scratches all over what is supposed to be a brand new screen.” (1-star review, Sept 2024)
- “Wire is super thin. Tore the first day I used it.” (1-star review, Apr 2024)
- “It only works with the included power cable, which is too short and blocks the windshield.” (1-star review, June 2024)
The Red Flags
Several red flags make these TikTok dash cam offers questionable:
- Fake or stolen video footage to entice buyers.
- Misleading specs—features are often not functional or present at all.
- Poor packaging—items arrive appearing used or damaged.
- No customer support or refund options despite broken or defective devices.
- Low-quality materials—cords tear easily, and mounts don’t stay put.
Even worse, the looped TikTok livestreams are not showing real-time product demos—they’re showing recycled footage from high-end cameras, while selling you a device worth a few dollars at best.
Who’s Behind It?
These types of listings are often run through TikTok Shop “dropshippers”—people or accounts using commission-based storefronts. Many don’t actually have inventory or customer service departments. They rely on viral content and quick impulse purchases to make money before customer complaints pile up.
How to Protect Yourself
- Check the reviews, not just the star rating—read the lowest ones first.
- Reverse search the video—if the dash cam footage appears elsewhere on YouTube or another platform, it’s likely not their original content.
- Be skeptical of TikTok Live promos with dramatic crash loops and no real demonstration of the actual product.
- Look for the same product on Amazon, AliExpress, or eBay to compare specs and reviews.
- Use payment methods with buyer protection (like PayPal or a credit card).
Final Thoughts
TikTok has become an incredible marketplace for discovery—but that comes with risk. Not every viral gadget is a scam, but the dash cam trend has been repeatedly linked to deceptive practices. If you’re serious about buying a dash cam, look into reputable brands and verified retailers. Don’t let a $19 impulse buy leave you with a useless piece of plastic.
Your safety—and your wallet—deserve better.
BEWARE: IOUO US Magnetic Phone Stand is a Dangerously Weak Gimmick
If you’ve seen the IOUO US “Vacuum Magnetic Phone Stand” advertised on TikTok Shop, it might seem like a sleek, futuristic solution for mounting your phone in your car. The listing promises a powerful vacuum seal, strong magnetism, foldable convenience, and even 360-degree adjustability—all for just a few bucks.
Unfortunately, it’s all smoke and mirrors.
Marketing vs. Reality
In flashy product photos and videos, the IOUO stand appears to grip devices effortlessly, hold steady on dashboards, and support a variety of phone models in motion. But thousands of real buyers are reporting a very different experience:
- The magnet can’t support the weight of most modern phones, including iPhones.
- The “vacuum” suction base is unreliable, often detaching in seconds.
- Even when attached, the mount can’t withstand normal driving conditions.
- Some buyers report never receiving their item at all.
What Real Buyers Are Saying
“Magnet isn’t strong at all, phone falls off with any turn. Driving hazard.”
— Q**e, March 29, 2025“It dropped my phone every time. It sticks to surfaces but doesn’t withstand the weight of my iPhone.”
— J**e, March 23, 2025“The suction cup only sticks on the window, not the dash. Also the magnet is really weak. So disappointed.”
— N**d, March 30, 2025“NEVER EVEN SHOWED UP and they won’t give me a refund… it’s a scam.”
— C**s f**s, March 25, 2025“This product doesn’t work. It doesn’t stick for a very long time, 5 seconds maybe.”
— A**y, March 21, 2025
A Pattern of False Promises
The most alarming part? The seller appears to inflate positive reviews, likely through free product promotions or bot accounts. While the average rating might look respectable at first glance, filtering by verified reviews reveals a mountain of 1-star complaints.
And when buyers attempt to reach out for support, they’re met with deflections and generic excuses like:
- “There are two extra magnets included.”
- “Our products are tested before shipping.”
- “It may not be compatible with your car’s dashboard.”
None of these responses address the core issue: the product doesn’t work as advertised.
What You’re Really Buying
In reality, this $3.99 gadget is a glorified paperweight. Its base loses suction within seconds, and its magnet can’t hold even the lightest devices securely. If you’re hoping for a reliable, hands-free phone mount for driving—this isn’t it.
The item is mass-produced, rebranded, and listed under multiple seller names across TikTok Shop and other marketplaces, making it difficult to track the origin or hold any seller accountable.
The Verdict
Avoid the IOUO Magnetic Phone Stand at all costs. It’s not only a waste of money, but a safety risk. A falling phone while driving could easily lead to distraction—or worse.
If you’re in need of a phone mount, stick to trusted brands with third-party testing and actual customer service. And always, always read verified reviews—not just star ratings.
Another TikTok Tech Scam? The Truth About the “80W” TOBRBE 3-in-1 GaN Charger
TikTok continues to explode as a shopping platform, but along with the rise of viral storefronts comes a wave of misleading tech products. The latest? A charger that claims to do everything — fast. Say hello to the TOBRBE 3-in-1 GaN Charger, a $9.99 gadget being sold with the promise of 80W super-fast charging, a retractable cable, and premium GaN technology.
Unfortunately, this charger is just another example of deceptive marketing aimed at impulse buyers. Let’s break down why.
What the Seller Claims
- 80W max fast charging output
- Three output ports (USB-C, USB-A, and built-in Type-C cable)
- Smart chip protection to prevent device damage
- Retractable magnetic 80cm cable
- Powered by GaN (Gallium Nitride) technology
All of this is being sold for under $10, which immediately raises a red flag. And it should.
What You Actually Get
- The real output is far lower — tests show it trickles at 15-20W total, far from the advertised 80W.
- The retractable cable is cheap and not rated for high-speed charging.
- No evidence of GaN chips inside — internal builds match basic silicon-based chargers.
- It blocks nearby outlets due to its bulky design.
- No safety certifications — no UL, FCC, or CE labels to ensure safe voltage regulation.
User Reactions Say It All
“Pretty bad design when you can’t use the plug next to it since it’s so big.”
“The total of 3 ports is estimated to be 80w, not per port.”
“Found the exact same charger on AliExpress for $1.83… only trickled at 15W.”
Multiple comments on TikTok confirm what we already suspected: this charger is mass-produced, rebranded, and sold at a steep markup.
It’s a Dropshipped Clone
Listings on AliExpress and Temu show identical chargers (often without any branding) priced between $1.50 to $2.00. The seller here simply adds a fake name (“TOBRBE”), inflates the wattage, and markets it through flashy TikTok videos.
Why This Matters
- False advertising misleads users and sets unsafe expectations.
- Low-quality components can damage your phone, tablet, or laptop.
- Uncertified chargers pose serious fire and shock risks.
- Wasted money — no real support or warranty if something goes wrong.
How to Protect Yourself
- Stick to reputable brands like Anker, UGREEN, or Baseus.
- Check teardown videos before buying unknown tech.
- Look for safety certifications: UL, CE, FCC.
- Compare listings with AliExpress to spot white-label products.
Final Verdict
The TOBRBE “80W” charger isn’t a tech breakthrough — it’s just another rebranded Chinese charger with exaggerated specs. While the price is low, the risk is high. Don’t trust your devices with cut-rate hardware.
Beware the hype. Investigate before you buy. And when it comes to chargers — never cut corners.