Social media connects us, entertains us, and even helps us shop — but it’s also a prime target for scammers. Fraudsters use fake stores on Facebook, malicious ads on YouTube, and phishing scams on Reddit to steal money and personal information. 

From fake job opportunities to fraudulent investment schemes, cybercriminals are constantly adapting. Even trusted platforms like Skype are being exploited. So, which social media platforms are the riskiest, and what scams should you be watching out for? Let’s break it down. 

Which platforms have the most threats? 

The Gen Q4/2024 Threat Report shows that Facebook tops the list for social media scams, making up 56% of all detected threats in social media. YouTube comes in second at 26%, while platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Reddit, and Instagram also pose risks. 

While WhatsApp has a larger user base, Telegram blocked six times more threats, suggesting that its unique features make it a more attractive target for cybercriminals. 

Breakdown of social media threats by platform: 

• Facebook: 56% of threats 

• YouTube: 26% 

• X (Twitter): 7% 

• Reddit: 5% 

• Instagram: 4% 

Larger platforms naturally attract more scams, but cybercriminals tailor their tactics to each site’s features. Understanding what to watch for can help you stay safe. 

The most common social media scams 

Scammers are constantly innovating, but some tactics remain favorites because they’re so effective. Here’s a look at the most common types of fraud happening on social media right now. 

1. Malvertising (27%)

Scammers create fake ads that look real but contain harmful links. Clicking on them can lead to malware infections or phishing sites. 

2. E-shop scams (23%)

Fake online stores on platforms like Facebook and Instagram trick people into buying non-existent or counterfeit products. With online shopping booming, especially during the holiday season, e-shop scams are becoming more prevalent, taking advantage of last-minute buyers looking for great deals. 

3. Phishing (18%)

Scammers send deceptive messages or create fake websites designed to steal your personal information, such as passwords or credit card details. 

4. Financial scams (11%)

These scams involve fake investment opportunities, loan offers, or fraudulent fundraising campaigns. 

5. Generic scams (10%)

These broad schemes aim to extract personal details or money, often through emotional manipulation. 

6. Tech support scams (5%)

Cybercriminals impersonate customer service reps or tech support, tricking victims into granting remote access to their devices. 

7. Romance scams (3%)

Scammers build fake online relationships to manipulate victims into sending money or personal data. 

8. Other scams (2%)

Smaller-scale but still dangerous scams, often taking advantage of new trends or niche audiences. 

How scammers use each platform 

Each social media site has unique features that make it vulnerable to different kinds of scams. Here’s how criminals tailor their attacks: 

1. Facebook: The fake marketplace

Facebook is ground zero for e-shop scams. Fraudsters create fake businesses or listings on Facebook Marketplace, tricking buyers into sending payments for products that never arrive. Many victims assume Facebook verifies these sellers, but that’s not the case. 

2. YouTube: Dangerous ads

On YouTube, malvertising is the biggest threat. Scammers use misleading video ads to distribute malware or redirect users to phishing sites. With more than 2.5 billion users, YouTube provides a massive audience for these fraudulent ads. 

3. X (formerly Twitter): Impersonation scams

Since X allows users to buy verification badges, scammers can appear more credible. Fraudsters often hijack trending topics to push fake giveaways, especially during crises or major events. 

4. Reddit: The hidden phishing trap

Reddit’s structure allows scammers to embed phishing links within seemingly helpful comments or posts. Fraudsters use fake “recommendations” or ads to redirect users to malicious sites. Since Reddit’s content is community-driven, monitoring for scams is challenging. 

5. Instagram: The visual shopping scam

With 42% of its threats tied to fake stores, Instagram is a scammer’s paradise. Fraudsters create beautiful but fraudulent storefronts using Instagram Shopping, showcasing products that never arrive. The platform’s targeted advertising tools make it easy for scammers to find victims. 

How to protect yourself on social media 

As scams evolve, staying informed and taking proactive security measures is your best defense. Here’s how to protect yourself from cybercriminals on social media: 

• Verify sellers before buying. Check reviews, look for real customer feedback, and be wary of stores that only accept cryptocurrency or peer-to-peer payment apps like Zelle or Cash App. 

• Be cautious of social media ads. Malicious ads can appear on any platform, including YouTube and Reddit. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. 

• Watch for impersonation scams. Always verify accounts before engaging. Scammers frequently impersonate celebrities, brands, and even government agencies. 

• Avoid clicking suspicious links. If an unknown user sends you a link, don’t click it. Instead, visit the official website manually. 

• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA). This extra layer of security can help protect your accounts from unauthorized access. 

• Report and block suspicious accounts. If you see something shady, report it to the platform. Blocking scam accounts can prevent them from targeting others. 

• Use cybersecurity software. Choose a robust cybersecurity suite, like Avast One, to help protect you from online threats.  

Social media can be a fun and useful tool, but it’s also a hotspot for cybercriminals. By staying aware and following best practices, you can enjoy your favorite platforms without falling victim to scams. 

The future of social media security 

Scammers are constantly adapting, finding new ways to exploit social media platforms and users. As digital crime continues to evolve, collaboration between users, tech companies, and cybersecurity experts will be crucial in making these platforms safer. 

What can you do? Stay informed, use strong security measures, and think before you click. If something looks suspicious, trust your instincts and double-check before engaging. 

Cybercrime isn’t slowing down, but neither is our ability to fight back. Stay smart, stay safe, and help keep social media a place for genuine connections—not scams.