Protecting Yourself from Celebrity Impersonation Scams on Social Media
Recently, there has been a rise in celebrity impersonation scams on social media platforms, with high-profile individuals like Connie Ferguson speaking out about scammers using their names to defraud unsuspecting fans. This trend is not limited to South Africa, as cybercrime specialist investigator Mike Bolhuis points out that these scams are a global issue.
The scammers often create fake profiles using stolen or manipulated images of celebrities and engage with individuals, promising exclusive opportunities or seeking financial assistance. With the advancement of technology, scammers are now using artificial intelligence tools to enhance their deception, making it even harder for people to discern the authenticity of these interactions.
How to Protect Yourself
According to Bolhuis, there are simple precautions you can take to avoid falling victim to these scams. Firstly, always verify the authenticity of a social media account by looking for the blue verification tick. If a well-known celebrity has very few followers, it is likely a fake account.
Be vigilant and sceptical of messages or friend requests from strangers, and never share personal information or financial details with anyone you don’t know and trust. Stay informed about the latest scam tactics and report any suspicious activity to the authorities or the relevant social media platform.
By following these precautions and remaining cautious when engaging with celebrities on social media, you can protect yourself from falling prey to celebrity impersonation scams. Remember, if something seems too good to be true, it probably is.
