10 common Instagram scams and how to avoid them

Instagram is easily one of the world’s most popular social networks, especially with younger people, but that popularity is also why it’s a regular stalking ground for scammers. In this guide we’ll tackle 10 of the most common Instagram scam types, and how you (or your friends and loved ones) can avoid them.

1. Lottery/giveaway scams

While sweepstakes and other giveaways on Instagram are often genuine — since it’s an ideal way of promoting a brand — it’s important to doublecheck the authenticity of any source account(s).

2. Phishing

Phishing is the use of fake webpages to trick you into sharing private info, such as your bank or Instagram logins.

3. Counterfeiting

Some scammers claim to be selling luxury goods, often at a sharp discount.

4. Fake influencers

This is a very broad category that can overlap with others.

5. Crypto scams

Some people have legitimately become rich off of crypto currencies like Bitcoin, but there’s a whole (exploitative) cottage industry dedicated to selling the idea that anyone can end up driving a Ferrari by the end of the week.

6. “Flipping”/investment scams

These sell you on the notion that you can get rich quick after an initial investment.

7. Fake sponsorships

If you’re an influencer yourself, you could be approached by someone promising a sponsorship deal with shady terms.

8. Fake jobs

When you’re unemployed, you can potentially become desperate for a new job to pay the bills.

9. Romance and prostitution scams

A lot of male Instagram users, at least, have been approached by strangers promising paid or no-strings sex.

10. Astroturfed music promotion

These days, a surprising number of people are bedroom musicians hoping to break out.