How Do I Spot Social Media Scams?

What this helps with: Recognizing the most common scams on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and other apps, and what to do if you see one.

The FTC says more people report losing money to scams that started on social media than through any other way scammers reach people. Most of these scams follow the same few patterns. Once you know them, they’re easier to spot.

Romance scams

Someone you’ve never met starts a friendly chat. Soon they say they love you. They often say they’re overseas, in the military, or working on an oil rig, so they can’t meet.

Warning signs:

• They always have a reason they can’t video chat or meet.
• They ask for money, gift cards, or cryptocurrency, often for an emergency or a plane ticket.
• They want you to move the chat to another app, like WhatsApp.

The rule: never send money or gifts to someone you’ve only met online.

Fake and cloned friend requests

A scammer copies a real person’s name and photos, then sends friend requests to their friends. Then they ask for money, or send a link.

What to do:

1. If you’re already friends with that person, a second request is a red flag.
2. Call or text your friend at a number you already have and ask, “Did you just send me a new request?”
3. Don’t accept it. Report the fake account. On Facebook, go to the fake profile, tap the three dots, then Report profile.

“Hacked friend” messages

A message from a real friend’s account says, “Is this you in this video?” or “I won a grant, you can too!” Their account was taken over.

• Don’t click the link.
• Contact your friend another way to let them know.

Marketplace and shopping scams

• Buyers who “overpay” and ask you to send the difference back.
• Sellers who want a deposit before you see the item, or payment by gift card, wire, or a payment app to a stranger.
• Requests for a “verification code” sent to your phone. Never share it. It lets them take over your account.

Safer habits: meet in a public place, see the item first, and pay when you get it. Many police stations offer a safe spot for swaps.

Fake ads and giveaways

Ads for big discounts, free gifts, or “you’ve won” prizes can lead to fake stores that take your money and send nothing. Check the store’s name online with the word “scam” or “reviews” before buying.

If you think you’ve been scammed

1. Stop replying. Block the account.
2. Report it in the app.
3. If you paid, call your bank or card company right away. If you paid with a gift card, call the number on the back of the card.
4. Report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
5. Change your password if you clicked a link or shared a code.

You’re not alone, and it’s not your fault. Scammers are skilled at this.

Official sources

• FTC: What to know about romance scams
• FTC: Reported losses to scams on social media (2026)
• FTC: Report fraud
• FBI IC3: Report internet crime
• Facebook: Help Center

Last checked: Oct 20, 2026

This is general help, not legal or financial advice. Outside the US, report scams to your local police or national fraud agency.