Let’s talk about Instagram; if you don’t have it, you’ve heard of it (but let’s face it, you probably have it.) In fact, Instagram currently has over 2 billion active users. Which means, due to its popularity, it is a common place for hackers to target.
Here are the top Instagram scams to look out for:
- The Fake Giveaway Trap
Scam: Accounts will claim to give away expensive items and ask for personal information or payment in return.
Who wouldn’t want a free iPhone from an account with 4 followers and a suspiciously similar username to a popular brand?
- Phishing DMs
Scam: Direct messages with links asking for login details.
Who wouldn’t want to share their password with a stranger who can’t even spell ‘Instagram’ correctly?
- The Impersonator’s Game
Scam: Fake accounts pretending to be influencers or celebrities.
Finally, my chance to talk to Elon Musk about a groundbreaking idea I have!
- Fake Brand Collaborations
Scam: Fake companies reaching out for fake collaborations and asking for payment upfront.
I’m getting sponsored by ‘TotallyLegitBrand’ – because nothing says ‘influencer’ like promoting non-existent products.
- The Click-Bait Catastrophe
Scam: Intriguing captions leading to irrelevant or harmful links.
Click here to discover the secret to losing weight in just 5 minutes!
- Profile Picture Pranks
Scam: Accounts using attractive profile pictures to lure followers into scams.
Because nothing says ‘trustworthy’ like a profile picture from a stock photo website.
It’s important to always be cautious online, even when you are innocently scrolling through Instagram on your downtime.
If you haven’t utilized CATS Technology’s Cyber Security services and are interested in protecting your organization better, as well as finding out more about Cyber Insurance, please reach out to our Sales Department: Sales@CATSTechnology.com.
For Customers who are enrolled in PII or Cyber Security Training, please make sure to complete your weekly training in order to properly maintain your company’s security.
