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Social media helps us stay connected, entertained and informed, but unfortunately it’s also a hunting ground for scammers. With more people sharing their lives online, cybercriminals are getting increasingly clever at blending in and building trust. Here are some of the most common social media scams to watch out for.
1. Impersonation Scams
Scammers often clone the profiles of people you know (family members, friends, trusted brands or local businesses), and use them to send messages asking for money or personal information. Always double-check before responding. If you get a strange message, call or contact the real person directly through another channel to confirm.
2. Online Shopping Scams
That amazing deal popping up in your feed might not be as good as it seems. Fake e-commerce pages and ads can lead you to slick-looking websites that take your money and never deliver the goods (or send cheap knockoffs instead). Look for reviews, check the website’s legitimacy and avoid buying from unfamiliar shops with too-good-to-be-true prices. Stick with well-known or verified retailers.
3. Fake Giveaways and Contests
Scammers often pose as popular brands or celebrities, promoting fake giveaways to trick users into handing over personal information, like email addresses, phone numbers or even credit card details. Be cautious of contests that ask for too much information or require payment to “claim” a prize.
4. Investment Scams
Scammers may pose as financial gurus, influencers or even old friends promoting can’t-miss investment opportunities that lead straight to an empty wallet. Always do your research. Never send money or invest based on a social media message. Real investments require time, research, and trusted sources
Social media is a great tool – just remember that not everything you see is what it seems. Be cautious with your personal information, verify sources and trust your instincts. If something feels suspicious, it probably is. If you think you’ve been scammed, contact us immediately.