Fancy a Free Website? A Common Facebook Scam Targeting Businesses

by | Jan 15, 2025 | Scams, Web Design

If you’ve spent any time on Facebook as a business owner, you’ve likely come across an offer that seems too good to be true: “Fancy a free website?” These posts often promise to build your business a stunning new website at no cost, usually from companies claiming to help small businesses grow. But before you jump at the opportunity, ask yourself – is it really free?

Many of these offers are scams, preying on startups and business owners who are unfamiliar with the digital world. While a free website may sound appealing, these scams often lead to hidden costs, poor-quality websites, and even stolen personal information. In this article, we’ll explore how these scams operate, the warning signs to watch out for, and how you can protect your business from falling victim to these fraudulent schemes.


How the “Free Website” Scam Works

The typical Facebook scam follows a familiar pattern:

  • A Facebook Ad or Post: The scam starts with an eye-catching ad or post offering a free website for businesses. The post often contains phrases like:
    • “We’re looking for businesses to showcase our web design services! Get a website for free!”
    • “Claim your free website today – no hidden fees!”
    • “Limited-time offer: We’ll build your site at no cost!”
    • “Get a free website, just pay for the hosting!”

  • A Suspicious Website or Contact Form: If you click on the ad, you’ll be redirected to a poorly designed website or a basic Google Form. These pages ask for your business details, email, and phone number.

  • The Hook: After submitting your details, the scam company contacts you with an irresistible offer. They assure you that everything is included.

  • The Hidden Costs Appear: Once you sign up, the reality sets in:
    • They may require you to pay for hosting at an inflated price.
    • Your domain might be registered under their name, not yours.
    • You could be locked into a long-term contract with unexpected fees.
    • They may offer add-ons like security or maintenance at a premium price.

  • The Quality is Terrible: The “free” website you receive is often poorly built, non-functional, and copied from a cheap template. Worse still, it may be uneditable, meaning you’ll have to pay them for any future changes.

  • Disappearing Act: Some of these companies simply disappear after a few months, leaving you without support or even access to your own website.

Red Flags: How to Spot a Fake Facebook Website Offer

While not every free website offer is a scam, most are designed to trap you into paying more than you should. Here are key warning signs to watch out for:

No Physical Address or Local Presence – Scam companies often have no real office or business address in the UK. They are usually operated from overseas, or based somewhere else miles away in the UK, making it difficult to track them down.

Fake Reviews & Low Engagement – Their Facebook and Google page may have glowing reviews, but these are often written by fake profiles with no real activity. Real businesses should have genuine reviews from verified clients.

Pressure to Sign Up Quickly – If they push you to make a decision immediately without giving you time to think, it’s a red flag.

Hidden Costs – If their “free website” requires expensive hosting, monthly fees, or long-term contracts, it’s not really free.

No Portfolio or Examples – Legitimate web design companies showcase past work. If they can’t show real websites they’ve built, run the other way.

No Control Over Your Website – A trustworthy company will give you full access to your website, including domain ownership and backend login details.


Why These Scams Target Business Owners & Startups

New businesses are particularly vulnerable to these scams because:

  • They lack experience in web design & digital marketing – Scammers take advantage of business owners who don’t know what a proper website should cost.
  • They are looking for cost-effective solutions – Startups often have limited budgets and are drawn to anything that appears free.
  • They trust social media ads – Many assume that if an ad is on Facebook, it must be legitimate.
  • They don’t research thoroughly – Business owners, especially in the early stages, may rush into decisions without checking credentials.

What You Should Do Instead

Instead of falling for a fake “free website” offer, here’s how to get a legitimate, high-quality website for your business:

1. Work with a Trusted Web Design Agency

A professional company like PCP Web Design UK can provide:

  • Custom website design tailored to your business needs.
  • Transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
  • Full website ownership and control.
  • Local UK-based support and maintenance.

2. Invest in Long-Term Solutions

A good website is an investment, not an expense. Consider paying for professional web design services rather than chasing “free” offers that end up costing more in the long run.

3. Check Reviews & Credentials

Always research a company before working with them. Look for real reviews from UK-based businesses and check their portfolio.

4. Own Your Domain & Hosting

Register your domain name yourself through a reputable provider like GoDaddyNamecheap or our sister company PCP Web Hosting UK. Ensure your hosting is from a well-known company where you have full control.

5. Ask Questions

Before signing up for any web design service, ask:

  • Will I own my website and domain?
  • Are there any hidden costs or ongoing fees?
  • Can I edit my site without paying extra?
  • What happens if I want to leave?

Protect Your Business from Scammers

While the idea of a free website is tempting, the reality is that nothing is truly free in business. If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. Facebook scams like these exploit small business owners, locking them into overpriced contracts or leaving them with worthless websites.

Instead of falling for a “free website” trap, invest in a web designer in Kent that supports your business long-term. A website is the foundation of your online footprint, make sure it’s built by professionals you can trust.

If you need a reliable website without hidden costs, get in touch with us today. We offer transparent pricing, custom-built websites, and full ownership of your digital presence.

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