Social media scams

Most of us use some form of social media – and fraudsters do too, it’s one of the ways they could target you.  Discover some common social media scams and what tactics the fraudsters are using, so you can stay safe when you’re online.

 

Common scams to look out for

If you receive a message on social media that appears to be from a family member or friend in need of help, it might be a scam.

Think carefully before engaging with unfamiliar profiles or clicking on suspicious links. If something seems off, it probably is!

Competition scams

Businesses and influencers sometimes post giveaways and competitions to celebrate a milestone or as a promotion.

Whether you’ve entered a competition or giveaway on social media or not, the fraudsters might be in touch.

  • Fraudsters will send messages to people claiming they’ve won a competition or giveaway. You’ll get a link to claim your prize.

    They want your personal and card details – and sometimes extra money too.

    So, when you select the link, it’ll ask you to enter your personal information, like your card details, to verify your address. They might even ask you for a small payment to cover delivery.

  • Make sure it’s a real giveaway:

    • Check the original post – this is a good way to find out if you’ve really won.
    • You can only win if you’ve entered the giveaway or competition.
    • The message should come from an account you follow – owned by the real brand.
    • They’ll only ask for your name, contact information and postal address.

     

    How to spot if it’s a scam:

    • The message may come from a private account or one you don’t follow.
    • You’re not expecting the message and it includes a link.
    • You are asked to give card details or money to claim your prize.
    • You get the message before the closing date of the giveaway, or you didn’t enter at all.

    Remember – never share your personal information or bank details with anyone you don’t know. You can report suspicious messages on the social media platform.

Social media shopping scams

Be careful of scams when you’re buying on platforms such as Facebook Marketplace or TikTok Shop.

Fraudsters might pressure you into buying by telling you the item will sell out soon, so you don’t have time to think things through.

They could also ask you to pay for the item outside the social media channel – this is so that your payment gets less protection.

  • If the seller is genuine:

    • They’ll let you see local, large or expensive items in person, before you buy them.
    • On TikTok Shop, verified sellers get a blue checkmark next to their name.
    • They’ll have a history of positive reviews and feedback from other sales.

    If something feels off, it’s always best to trust your instincts and proceed with caution

  • If it’s a scam:

    • There might not be much information about the item.
    • There could be lots of bad reviews.
    • The price might be a lot cheaper than you expected.
    • The seller might ask you to pay outside the social media platform.
    • The seller might make you feel rushed into buying.

    Remember – if you’re paying online, the best way to protect your money is by using a debit or credit card. Or use a payment service that offers buyer protection, such as PayPal Goods and Services.

Impersonation scams

Fraudsters can impersonate social media users by creating fake accounts or hacking real ones.

They’ll message the person’s friends or family, claiming they’ve lost their phone and can’t access their bank account. Then, they’ll urgently ask to borrow money.

  • Impersonation scams can be tricky to identify and can occur on social media platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook.

    Here are some signs to watch out for:

    • You receive an unexpected message from a friend or family member.
    • The messages are short and lack personal details.
    • You feel pressured to send money quickly.
    • If you request a phone call, they provide an excuse for why they can’t talk.
    • Fraudsters may set up a fake profile pretending to be a genuine business.

  • If it’s your friend or relative messaging:

    • They’ll answer the phone on a number you trust to confirm they sent the message.
    • They’ll be able to put identifying information in their messages.

    If it’s a scam:

    • The message could be unexpected.
    • They’ll pressure you to send the money quickly.
    • They’ll have an excuse about why they can’t answer the phone.
    • The messages might be short with no identifying information.

    Remember – you can report suspicious messages on the social media platform. But if you’re not sure, don’t respond and block the account so they can’t contact you again.

Learn about other scams and how to protect yourself

Scam calls

Learn how fraudsters use your details to win your trust.

Avoid scam calls

Scam emails and texts

Fraudsters try to steal your details through emails and texts.

Avoid scam messages

Pension scams

Fraudsters can pretend to be a company or adviser to target your pension.

Protect your pension

Investment scams

Fraudsters may pretend to be a genuine company or adviser.

Avoid investment scams

Protect your devices

Learn how to keep your devices safe.

Learn about device safety

Protect your identity

Fraudsters might try to steal your personal and banking details.

Keep your identity safe

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Protect yourself from fraud