Guardians of the Scroll: Dodging Social Media Giveaway Scams

You've probably heard the common saying: when you're shopping online, it's crucial to "check things out before checkout." This advice is just as important when you're diving into giveaways on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram. Shockingly, one in four people who reported losing money to scams in 2021 shared that it all started on social media. In the Global State of Scams 2023 Report released by GASA, social media platforms are the most common scam channels. 

Scammers excel at blurring the lines between what's real and what's fake, making it tricky for users. To help you navigate your social media feed safely, let's explore some essential tips.

Spotting Scams on Social Media: A Guide to Staying Safe

Giveaway Hijinks: Scammers Lurking on Your Feed

Scammers closely monitor your favorite businesses' giveaways, sometimes even mimicking legitimate promotions to steal your personal information. Exercise caution and verify the authenticity of the giveaways you engage in.

The Winning Trap: How Scammers Reel You In

Picture this: you enthusiastically participate in a giveaway, and suddenly, someone claiming to be the business owner declares you as the winner. Stay alert—scammers often use this tactic to steal financial information from you through dubious links. Always approach such announcements with a healthy dose of skepticism.

The Pause Button: What to Do Before Taking the Bait

Before clicking on any links, take a moment to pause and assess the situation since they might contain malware. Ask yourself if a business genuinely needs your credit card information for a free prize. A legitimate giveaway usually won't require such sensitive details. If in doubt, reach out to the business through known and trusted channels to verify the authenticity of the message.

Unmasking Giveaways Scams: How to Tell Real from Fake

Legitimate employers won't rush you into completing direct deposit and tax forms, especially through unfamiliar communication channels. Be wary of unusual requests and invest time in verifying the legitimacy of the employer. Red flags should be raised if the available information is not easily verifiable.

The Bottom Line: Pause and Ponder for a Secure Online Experience

If you encounter a suspicious job posting or giveaway, don't hesitate to report it promptly. Visit ReportFraud.ftc.gov and notify the relevant platform about potential scams. Taking a moment to pause and ponder before engaging in online activities is the key to a secure and enjoyable experience.

This article was published in collaboration with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).