Fake ads on social media: an increasingly common trap

Fake ads on social media are on the rise. They imitate well-known brands, use familiar faces or invent ‘secret deals’ from former employees. The goal? To get your money or your data.

A well-crafted scenario

We are seeing more and more sponsored ads telling the same story: ‘I used to work for this company, I know a loophole to get this product at a bargain price.’ These messages, which give the illusion of privileged access, are entirely fabricated by fraudsters.

The website the ad links to is fraudulent. It copies the appearance of the real site, collects your order (and your money...) but you will never receive anything.

Fake reviews to reassure you

A high-end food processor for £39? Branded trainers at 90% off? Be wary! If an offer seems too good to be true, it's probably a scam.

Scammers play on urgency or exclusivity: ‘limited stock’, ‘secret sale’, ‘bankruptcy clearance’... Everything is designed to push you to click quickly, without thinking.

These ads are accompanied by numerous comments: ‘Received in 2 days, great quality!’, ‘Great deal, thank you!’. Don't be fooled. These testimonials are fake, often posted by fake profiles or generated automatically to encourage you to order.

How can you protect yourself? 5 good habits

1. Look closely at the URL: is there a strange address or a mistake in the domain name? It's not the real website.
2. Look for the offer on the official website: if it's not there, be wary.
3. Take time to think: scams prey on people who act quickly.
4. Look for external reviews: type the name of the website or product followed by ‘scam’ or “review”.
5. Report suspicious ads: on Facebook, Instagram or TikTok, click on the three dots and select ‘Report ad’.

Have you clicked on a suspicious link?

• Close the page without filling in anything.
• Never share your personal details.
• Change your passwords immediately if you have shared any.

Have you been a victim?

• Call your bank or Card Stop (078 170 170) if you have shared any bank details.
• Report it to your local police.
• Warn your friends and family: these scams are widespread, so word of mouth is a valuable weapon.

Want to know more? 

Find information from the FPS Economy