X (formerly known as Twitter) and Meta both offer programs where users can pay for a “verified account.”
Social media has long been a popular target for scammers. Given these two facts, businesses and consumers should be vigilant about how scammers will use this latest twist to their own advantage.
The BBB monitors reports to the BBB Scam Tracker, and recently the BBB Institute for Marketplace Trust and Amazon (a BBB accredited company) have partnered to educate consumers about identity fraud.
In recent phishing scams, fraudsters have targeted companies and individuals with verified accounts – a measure that was supposed to help prevent fraud.
How the scam works
You receive a direct message or email that appears to come directly from X, Instagram, or another social media platform, saying that your verified account has been flagged and you need to re-verify it. If you don’t respond, you could allegedly lose your verification badge. For example, some X users have reported receiving direct messages or emails saying that their blue verification badge has been flagged as spam and will be deleted unless they appeal the decision.
The scam message asks you to click a link or download a form to start the appeal process and re-verify your account. Clicking it can download malware to your laptop or mobile device. This can collect your personal information without your knowledge. If you fill out forms or respond with the requested information, scammers may be able to hack your account or use your personal information for identity theft.
How to avoid social media fraud
● Understand how social media platforms work. Before using a social media platform, be sure to read its policies. For example, X never sends emails asking you to sign up, nor emails with attachments. Being aware of the platform’s policies and procedures will make you less likely to fall for a scammer’s correspondence – even if it looks genuine.
● Be careful of unwanted messages. Be skeptical of any unexpected message, whether it’s a direct message, an email, or a message in a messaging app, especially if it asks you to click links or open attachments. Instead, contact the source directly – the platform’s official customer service center – to determine if the message is genuine. Read more about this Facebook phishing scam targeting business pages.
● Be aware of signs of fraud. Poor spelling and grammar, pressure to act immediately, demands for payment and scaremongering are all warning signs that indicate a scam.
● Always protect your personal data. Never give your login credentials or other personal information to a stranger without verifying the legitimacy of the request. Most reputable companies will not ask you for your login credentials.
● Monitor your accounts. Be sure to monitor your social media accounts and search for your name or brand to make sure there are no scammers.
FOR MORE INFORMATION – If you have been contacted by a scammer, report your experience to the BBB Scam Tracker so other consumers can spot the scam. For more tips on social media scams and information on how to spot fake social media accounts, visit BBB.org/AvoidScams.
