Instagram is one of the most popular social media platforms, with over one billion monthly active users. Unfortunately, many of these users are scammers. So in this article, we are going to explain some of the ways to get past and spot a scam.
Clone Accounts
While searching for an account to follow on Instagram, you’ve probably come across numerous lookalike accounts. This clone attempts maybe by normal people or cybercriminals. Cybercriminals, will make clone accounts of celebs, businesses, or even your friends and family just so they can try to talk to you and get your information. Regular Instagram users’ accounts can also be readily cloned by cybercriminals.
The verification badge scam
In addition to cloned accounts, you should be on the lookout for account verification scams, often known as “verification badge frauds.” If you see a blue checkmark next to the name of an account, whether it’s a celebrity, influencer, or company, it implies that it’s authentic. The scammer will contact you through a direct message, offering to get you verified for a fee. Being verified essentially implies that you have a huge audience that follows you, and that you are important in your community to some level. This also opens the door to other options, such as sponsorship partnerships with other businesses. The scammers are banking on the desirability of that desired emblem. The only way to get verified is through Instagram itself, by adhering to its Terms of Use and Community Guidelines.
Questionable Sellers
In addition to allowing users to follow friends, celebrities, and influencers for their content, Instagram also allows businesses to sell their products and even functions as a marketplace. You may notice a rise in the amount of advertising for goods by reportedly new and emerging fashion firms, as well as those that are closing and having a clearance sale. Over time, they may ask you to maybe purchase some of their products for a much cheaper price for a particular reason, and ask to make a bank transfer. This is very much like a scam, as no genuine business would ask you to pay for something through a bank transfer through an Instagram message.
Well, that’s it. I hope you found these helpful and remember to stay safe online.
