These scams involve fraudsters posing as brands or influencers, claiming to give away cash, luxury items, or trips. Victims are asked to click a link, provide personal details, or send a payment to "claim" their prize—only to get scammed or have their accounts hacked.
How This Can Happen to Us?
Fake Celebrity/Brand Giveaways
Scammers impersonate celebrities, promising free iPhones, PS5s, or vacations.
They ask users to DM their credit card info or pay a "small fee" for shipping.
Bogus Influencer Collaborations
Fake accounts DM people, saying they’ve won a giveaway and must sign up on a sketchy website to claim their prize.
Phishing Links That Steal Instagram Logins
Clicking a link from a fake giveaway leads to an Instagram login page—but it’s a phishing site that steals credentials.
Example of a Scam
Emma received a DM saying she won a free MacBook from a big brand. She clicked the link and entered her Instagram details—her account was hacked within minutes.
How to Protect Yourself?
✅ Verify giveaways by checking official accounts and websites.
✅ Never click on unknown links sent via DM.
✅ Legitimate giveaways never ask for money or personal details.