There’s a new Facebook hack, but this time it’s targeting one of our favourite times of year. The ‘Secret Sister Gift Exchange’ promises participants 36 presents for a single, small investment, in a pyramid scheme that has started spreading rapidly across social media. Originating in the US, the scam has made its way over to the UK and is expected to continue spreading over the coming days. The ‘exchange’ encourages women to sign up to a secret-Santa present swap with strangers – although security specialists have warned the scam is identical to a pyramid scheme and is likely to leave users out of pocket. Image: Independent UK According to The Independent, the scheme is believed to be popular amongst Facebook groups, asking women to send a small a low value gift (limited to $10) to the person at the top of the list. Once the gift is sent, they remove the person in first place, and replace the top spot with the person in second place. They then slot their own name into the second space and send on the scheme to six of their own friends and family. While experts agree that initial people getting involved may receive something, they warn that it’s nearly impossible to predict where you fall on the scale of entries and to avoid getting involved at all. There are currently a number of Secret Sister Gift Exchange groups on Facebook, with more appearing on Twitter too.

Let me know if you live in the US and want to be part of this secret sister gift exchange! It's so cute and easy!! pic.twitter.com/j4baHZ6SYB

— lauren (@niallhauren) November 4, 2015

Want to stay safe while enjoying some festive fun? Create a Secret Santa with friends you know in real-life – at least you’ll be guaranteed a merry Christmas.