Hacked-friend giveaways and voting links
A friend's account asks you to vote for them or claim a prize, and you lose your account.
Sample content for development. This profile will be reviewed by DTI before launch.
How it works
After taking over one account, scammers message that person's friends. The link asks you to 'log in to vote' or share a code that was 'sent to you by mistake', which hands over your account too.
What it can look like
JYJordan (your friend)@jordan.k on direct message
hey sorry!! I accidentally sent a 6-digit code to your number, can you send it back to me? it's urgent 🙏
Illustration. Names and numbers are fictional.
Warning signs
- A friend asking for a code that was texted to you
- Links asking you to log in to vote, see a photo or claim a prize
- Messages that don't sound like your friend
Common tactics
- Using a trusted friend's account to lower your guard
- Asking for two-step verification codes
- Fake giveaways from look-alike brand accounts
What to do
- Never share a verification code with anyone, even a friend
- Check with your friend another way
- Turn on two-step verification for your social accounts
Reporting
Report the message or account to the platform it came through, then report to your country's official fraud reporting service. If money or banking details are involved, contact your bank or payment provider first.