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Social Media Scams

Dr. Phish’s Social Media Safety Guide

Learn how to spot fake profiles and avoid social media tricks!

What Are Social Media Scams?

Social media scams happen when cybercriminals create fake profiles or posts to trick people into sharing personal information, clicking dangerous links, or sending money. They often target kids by pretending to be friends, celebrities, or offering amazing deals.

Common Social Media Scams Targeting Kids

👥 Fake Friend Requests

  • Profiles using stolen photos
  • People claiming to go to your school
  • Strangers trying to start conversations

🎮 Gaming Scams

  • Fake accounts offering free game items
  • “Hacks” or “cheats” that steal your account
  • Contests that ask for your login information

🏆 Contest and Giveaway Scams

  • Fake celebrity giveaways
  • “Share this post to win” schemes
  • Contests asking for personal information

💸 Money Scams

  • Get-rich-quick schemes targeting teens
  • Fake job offers
  • “Investment” opportunities

How to Spot Fake Profiles

🕵️ Dr. Phish’s Profile Detective Checklist:

  • Check the photos: Do they look too perfect or professional?
  • Look at friends: Do they have very few friends or followers?
  • Read the posts: Are there spelling mistakes or weird language?
  • Check the join date: Brand new accounts can be suspicious
  • Mutual friends: Do you have real friends in common?

Dr. Phish’s Social Media Safety Rules

  1. Only accept friend requests from people you know in real life
  2. Keep your profile private
  3. Never share personal information publicly
  4. Don’t click on suspicious links in posts
  5. Block and report fake accounts
  6. Always tell an adult about strange messages

Privacy Settings Checklist

  • Make your profile viewable only to friends
  • Turn off location sharing
  • Don’t allow strangers to message you
  • Review tagged photos before they appear
  • Limit who can see your posts and information

Red Flags in Messages

  • Asking for your address or phone number
  • Requesting photos of yourself
  • Trying to move the conversation to a different app
  • Asking about your family or school details
  • Pressuring you to keep secrets from parents