SCAM AWARENESS EDUCATION SERIES

Telegram is a powerful messaging platform, but its features also make it a hunting ground for scammers. Staying safe requires a keen eye and adherence to best practices. By recognizing the red flags, you can effectively “catch” a scammer before they catch you.

1.  Examine the Profile and Identity

A scammer’s first tool is usually a believable disguise. Scrutinize the account for these tell-tale signs of impersonation:

• Fake Usernames: Look closely at the account’s username (the @ handle). Scammers often mimic official names by replacing letters with similar-looking numbers or characters (e.g., replacing ‘O’ with ‘0’ or ‘l’ with ‘I’).

• Impersonation of Admins/Support: Be highly skeptical of anyone who Direct Messages (DM) you claiming to be a “Telegram Support” agent or an “Admin” of a group you are in. Legitimate support or group admins will rarely, if ever, initiate a private chat, especially to ask for private details.

• Generic or Copied Profiles: A blank, vague, or recently created profile is suspicious. Be wary of profiles using stock photos or images stolen from a legitimate public figure or company.

• Lack of Verification: Official companies and public figures often have a blue checkmark next to their name. If an account claiming to represent a well-known entity lacks this badge, it is likely a fake.

2.  Recognize the Scammer’s Tactics

Scammers rely on two main drivers: greed and fear (or urgency). Their message content will almost always feature one of these themes.

• The “Too Good to Be True” Offer: This includes fake cryptocurrency investment schemes, guaranteed high returns on low investments, exclusive giveaways, or “secret” job opportunities with unrealistic pay. If the promise seems incredible, it’s a scam.

• Sense of Urgency (Pressure Tactics): Scammers create panic by claiming your account is about to be suspended, you have a limited-time chance to claim a prize, or a friend is in an urgent emergency. This is designed to make you act before you think.

• Requests for Sensitive Information: Any unsolicited message asking for your password, Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) codes, bank details, or credit card information is a scam. Official entities will never ask for this information via chat.

• The “Friend-in-Need” Scam: You receive a message from an account claiming to be a friend or family member who has a new number and is in a desperate emergency, needing money (often through untraceable methods like gift cards or wire transfers) immediately. Always verify the identity by calling them on their known, old phone number.

3.  Employ Verification and Safety Measures

The best way to catch a scammer is to make their job impossible.

• Never Click Unsolicited Links: Malicious links are often disguised to look like login pages or official websites (phishing) and are designed to steal your credentials or install malware. Assume any link from an unknown or suspicious account is a trap.

• Question Private Contact: If an “admin” DMs you, ask them to verify their request publicly in the main group chat. Scammers prefer to keep their operations private to avoid detection by real moderators.

• Enable Two-Step Verification (2FA): Set up an extra password for your Telegram account. This is the single most effective way to prevent account takeover, even if a scammer somehow obtains the initial login code.

• Adjust Privacy Settings: Limit who can add you to new groups and channels, and who can see personal details like your phone number or “last seen” status.

4.  Take Action: Reporting a Scammer

If you are certain you have encountered a scammer, take these steps to protect yourself and others:

1. Do Not Engage: Stop all communication immediately. Do not share any personal information or click on any provided media.

2. Block the Account: Use the block feature on the user’s profile to prevent any further contact.

3. Report to Telegram: Use the in-app reporting tools. You can:

   • Report a Specific Message: Tap and hold (or right-click) the message, select Report, and choose the reason (e.g., Scam or Spam).

   • Report the User/Channel: Go to the profile or channel info, tap the menu (⋮), and select Report.

   • For dedicated scam reports, you can contact the official Telegram anti-scam bot: @notoscam.

By remaining vigilant and adhering to these rules, you can safeguard your account and personal information from the constant threats posed by scammers on Telegram.

Contact us if you’d like more information on how cyber intelligence can help you locate scammers.

Please share this guide with friends and colleagues.