A new wave of internet scams is showing up on Instagram where bogus accounts lure users into providing personal information. You’d think we’d all know by now that you shouldn’t provide your name and address to strangers online right? Online shopping is secure (always look for the SSL Certificate folks)…but social media platforms do not provide that type of security.
We’re seeing a large number Instagram scams in particular because of it’s casual atmosphere. Here are five tips to make sure you aren’t part of the one in ten people who fall for a social media scam this year!
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Don’t engage with accounts that have the “giveaway” in their name.
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Check to see how much they post, and what kind of content it is. If there isn’t much going on – it’s likely a scam!
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Don’t ever click a SHORT URL!
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Check out their profile; are they following anyone? If not, it’s probably a scam.
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And of course…never provide your personal information!
Lots of companies are using social media platforms for giveaways the right way; so don’t give up online contests all together! Just remember the tips above and use common sense to make sure you don’t end up involved with these Instagram scams.
*Image courtesy of Instagram
Rachel Creveling has 15 years in the industry and is the Owner of Belle Strategies Marketing Agency. As a Digital Marketing Consultant, she helps clients strategically plan and build campaigns based on ROI. Her highly custom consulting method has earned clients including the Hilton Head Wine & Food Festival, Four Seasons Resort and Residences, South Beach Seafood Festival and many others. Rachel’s expertise helps companies push past revenue goals by leveraging their data and identifying areas for efficiency and growth.