Social media is now a part of everyday life. Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, and X (formerly Twitter) are only a few of the top most used social media platforms used personally and for businesses. However, with wide use comes a target from cybercriminals. Scammers are becoming more sophisticated, using social platforms to impersonate brands, manipulate emotions, and exploit trust to steal money or personal data. Whether you’re scrolling for entertainment, networking, or running a business, it’s essential to stay alert. Below are the top five social media scams to look out for.
1. See Who Viewed Your Profile
It’s normal to be curious about who’s looking at your profile, and that curiosity is exactly what this scam exploits. It often appears as a malicious ad or a direct message that seems to come from a friend. Clicking the link gives cybercriminals access to your account, allowing them to steal personal data or send spam from your profile.
2. Fake Inappropriate Videos
These posts often claim to show shocking or inappropriate videos of celebrities. When you click the fake YouTube link, it prompts you to “update your video player.” Clicking that link installs malware on your device, compromising your data and security.
3. Fake Viral Videos
Similar to the previous scam, these posts claim to show trending or viral content. If you can’t find the video on a legitimate platform like YouTube or a trusted news site, it’s likely a scam. Avoid clicking unknown links, especially if they seem too sensational to be true.
4. Fake Profiles
Scammers steal photos and names to create duplicate profiles. They then add the same friends as the original account and send urgent messages pretending to need help—often asking for money or sensitive information. Always verify before responding to unusual requests.
5. Romance Scams
Using fake names and photos, scammers build emotional connections through messages, memes, and flattery. Over time, they gain trust and begin asking for personal information or financial help. These scams can be emotionally and financially devastating, so stay cautious when forming online relationships.
Staying informed is your best defense. While social media offers countless opportunities to connect, it also opens the door to potential risks. By recognizing these common scams and taking simple precautions—like enabling two-factor authentication, avoiding suspicious links, and verifying identities—you can better protect yourself and your information. Cybercriminals are constantly evolving their tactics, but with awareness and caution, you can stay one step ahead.