The internet is full of great opportunities to win prizes, get free stuff, and score deals. But it is also a playground for scammers running deceitful contests and giveaways to take advantage of unsuspecting users. A prime example is the so-called “Mr. Beast Gift Cards Giveaway” making the rounds on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.
Posts and videos promoting the giveaway claim popular YouTuber MrBeast is handing out free $100 gift cards to celebrate hitting 170 million subscribers. But there’s a catch – this is 100% fake. The giveaway is an elaborate scam designed to generate illicit profits for fraudsters while stealing personal information from victims.
This scam combines phishing websites, spam offers, malicious downloads, and identity theft – all leveraging MrBeast’s famous reputation for over-the-top prizes. Don’t get duped by the viral hype. Read on to learn about how scammers are executing this scam, how to protect yourself online, and what to do if you or someone you know has fallen victim to this brazen impersonation scheme. With awareness and caution, internet users can avoid the traps set by MrBeast imitators and other shady operators running similar gift card scams.
Mr. Beast Gift Cards Giveaway Scam Overview
The MrBeast gift card giveaway scam is one of the latest online scams targeting social media users across platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and more. Scammers are promoting fake gift card giveaways impersonating popular YouTuber MrBeast, also known as Jimmy Donaldson.
MrBeast has over 180 million subscribers on his main YouTube channel and is best known for expensive stunts, massive giveaways, and philanthropic endeavors funded by his YouTube career. His popularity and reputation for giving away money, cars, houses, and other over-the-top prizes make him an ideal persona for scammers to imitate.
The MrBeast gift card giveaway scam scam typically involves a post, video or ad on social media platforms announcing a gift card giveaway celebration because MrBeast has surpassed 170 million YouTube subscribers. The posts claim he is giving away free gift cards worth $100 or more to places like Steam, Netflix, PlayStation, Xbox, Amazon, iTunes, Google Play and more.
Users are directed to click a link bringing them to scam websites that use MrBeast’s likeness and branding throughout the site. However, the lookalike website is completely fake and unaffiliated with the real MrBeast.
The site asks users to select a gift card, enter an email address, and complete “verification” by filling out surveys, downloading apps, or sharing personal information. In reality, these offers are just mechanisms for the scammers to generate money from victims who think they are getting a free high-value gift card.
No actual gift cards are distributed, and the personal details collected are either used to commit identity fraud or sold to other scammers. The MrBeast gift card scam combines the deceit of phishing sites impersonating real brands with survey scams, malicious apps, and identity theft.
How Scammers Carry Out the Mr. Beast Gift Cards Giveaway Scam
Scammers use carefully crafted social media posts and websites to lend credibility to the Mr. Beast Gift Cards Giveaway scam. Here is the step-by-step process:
1. Promotional Posts Promise Gift Cards
The first step is creating social media posts on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, or other platforms claiming Mr. Beast is giving away gift cards. The post usually says the giveaway is to celebrate 170 million YouTube subscribers.
An example is an Instagram post with an image of Mr. Beast and text like “MRBEAST.WORLD. On the occasion of 170M subscribers MRBEAST surprises his band with the biggest GIVEAWAY in history.”
2. Posts Link to Fake Lookalike Website
The social media posts will include a link to the fraudulent different scam website. The fake Mr. Best site is designed to look somewhat like a legitimate Mr. Beast site. The scam website has images of Mr. Beast, logos, and brand colors to appear authentic.
Of course, the real Mr. Beast is not associated with the website in any way. The site’s look and feel are simply ploys to build trust for the scam.
3. Users Select Gift Card and Submit Email
On the fake website, users are prompted to pick a gift card from major brands like Amazon, Netflix, Steam, or PlayStation. Gift card values tend to be $100 or higher. Users are then asked to enter an email address to request the card.
Victims entering an email address believe they are signing up to receive a code for the gift card they selected. In reality, the submitted email helps scammers identify and target victims for more scams later.
4. Fake “Verification” Process
After submitting an email address, victims are redirected to a new page for “identity verification.” This page claims users must complete additional steps before getting their gift card code.
These new steps serve as phony verification, when in reality they just maximize profits for scammers or expose users to identity theft.
5. Users Asked to Complete Surveys and Offers
The fake verification page lists different offers users supposedly need to complete to get their gift card code:
Taking surveys
Signing up for newsletter subscriptions
Downloading and installing mobile apps
Watching a certain number of videos or ads
Clicking affiliate links to specific websites
Enabling notifications or sharing personal info
Users attempting these offers are simply helping scammers earn money through commissions, downloads, and selling user data. Meanwhile, users believe completing offers is the final requirement to get their promised gift cards.
6. No Gift Cards Are Ever Sent Out
Finally, after completing some or all offers on the verification page, users do not actually receive any gift cards. The Mr. Beast impersonators never planned to give out real gift cards in the first place.
At best, victims only get more spam and lose time. But at worst, they may have downloads malware, shared personal info, or signed up for costly recurring subscription services. The scam results in no rewards for users while scammers profit.
What to Do if You Were Scammed by the Fake Mr. Beast Gift Cards Giveaway Offer
If you submitted personal information or completed survey offers as part of the Mr. Beast Gift Cards Giveaway scam, take these steps right away:
Review Accounts for Suspicious Activity
Carefully review any accounts associated with information you submitted during the scam offers. Check for unknown logins, password reset requests, new social media posts you didn’t create, or charges you don’t recognize.
Change Passwords and Enable Two-Factor Authentication
For any accounts with sensitive personal or financial information, change your password immediately. Create a strong, unique password. Also enable two-factor or multi-factor authentication for extra security.
Run Security Scans for Malware
If you downloaded any files, apps, or clicks links as part of the scam offers, run a scan with Malwarebytes on your devices for malware. Remove anything suspicious or unauthorized. Watch for signs of viruses like pop-ups, lagging, or account lockouts.
Check Bank Accounts and Credit Cards for Fraud
Carefully review your financial statements and credit card charges from the last few weeks for any fraudulent or unauthorized transactions. Report any suspicious activity to your bank or card provider immediately.
Avoid Communications About the Scam
Ignore any new emails, messages, or phone calls related to the original Mr. Beast scam offers. These could be attempts to continue scamming you or steal your personal data. Avoid clicking any new links or downloading anything more.
Report the Scam to Authorities
To help prevent the scam from impacting more innocent people, report it to trusted authorities. You can report the social media accounts that promoted it, the fraudulent Mr. Beast.world website, and file a complaint with the FTC.
Beware of Similar Gift Card Scams
Sadly, variations on the Mr. Beast Gift Cards Giveaway scam are likely to continue on social media. Maintain skepticism of too-good-to-be-true giveaways, research brands and offers, and avoid simply clicking links from unknown sources. With caution, you can protect yourself from gift card scammers impersonating celebrities or companies.
Is Your Device Infected? Scan for Malware
If your computer or phone is slow, showing unwanted pop-ups, or acting strangely, malware could be the cause. Running a scan with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free is one of the most reliable ways to detect and remove harmful software. The free version can identify and clean common infections such as adware, browser hijackers, trojans, and other unwanted programs.
Malwarebytes works on Windows, Mac, and Android devices. Choose your operating system below and follow the steps to scan your device and remove any malware that might be slowing it down.
Malwarebytes for WindowsMalwarebytes for MacMalwarebytes for Android
Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Windows
Malwarebytes stands out as one of the leading and widely-used anti-malware solutions for Windows, and for good reason. It effectively eradicates various types of malware that other programs often overlook, all at no cost to you. When it comes to disinfecting an infected device, Malwarebytes has consistently been a free and indispensable tool in the battle against malware. We highly recommend it for maintaining a clean and secure system.
Download Malwarebytes
Download the latest version of Malwarebytes for Windows using the official link below. Malwarebytes will scan your computer and remove adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious software for free.
(The above link will open a new page from where you can download Malwarebytes)
Install Malwarebytes
After the download is complete, locate the MBSetup file, typically found in your Downloads folder. Double-click on the MBSetup file to begin the installation of Malwarebytes on your computer. If a User Account Control pop-up appears, click “Yes” to continue the Malwarebytes installation.
Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes
When the Malwarebytes installation begins, the setup wizard will guide you through the process.
You’ll first be prompted to choose the type of computer you’re installing the program on—select either “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer” as appropriate, then click on Next.
Malwarebytes will now begin the installation process on your device.
When the Malwarebytes installation is complete, the program will automatically open to the “Welcome to Malwarebytes” screen.
On the final screen, simply click on the Open Malwarebytes option to start the program.
Enable “Rootkit scanning”.
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware will now start, and you will see the main screen as shown below. To maximize Malwarebytes’ ability to detect malware and unwanted programs, we need to enable rootkit scanning. Click on the “Settings” gear icon located on the left of the screen to access the general settings section.
In the settings menu, enable the “Scan for rootkits” option by clicking the toggle switch until it turns blue.
Now that you have enabled rootkit scanning, click on the “Dashboard” button in the left pane to get back to the main screen.
Perform a Scan with Malwarebytes.
To start a scan, click the Scan button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its antivirus database and begin scanning your computer for malicious programs.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will now scan your computer for browser hijackers and other malicious programs. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Quarantine detected malware
Once the Malwarebytes scan is complete, it will display a list of detected malware, adware, and potentially unwanted programs. To effectively remove these threats, click the “Quarantine” button.
Malwarebytes will now delete all of the files and registry keys and add them to the program’s quarantine.
Restart your computer.
When removing files, Malwarebytes may require a reboot to fully eliminate some threats. If you see a message indicating that a reboot is needed, please allow it. Once your computer has restarted and you are logged back in, you can continue with the remaining steps.
Once the scan completes, remove all detected threats. Your Windows computer should now be clean and running smoothly again, free of trojans, adware, and other malware.
If your current antivirus allowed this malicious program on your computer, you may want to consider purchasing Malwarebytes Premium to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your computer after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:
Malwarebytes for Mac is an on-demand scanner that can destroy many types of malware that other software tends to miss without costing you absolutely anything. When it comes to cleaning up an infected device, Malwarebytes has always been free, and we recommend it as an essential tool in the fight against malware.
Download Malwarebytes for Mac.
You can download Malwarebytes for Mac by clicking the link below.
When Malwarebytes has finished downloading, double-click on the setup file to install Malwarebytes on your computer. In most cases, downloaded files are saved to the Downloads folder.
Follow the on-screen prompts to install Malwarebytes.
When the Malwarebytes installation begins, you will see the Malwarebytes for Mac Installer which will guide you through the installation process. Click “Continue“, then keep following the prompts to continue with the installation process.
When your Malwarebytes installation completes, the program opens to the Welcome to Malwarebytes screen. Click the “Get started” button.
Select “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer”.
The Malwarebytes Welcome screen will first ask you what type of computer are you installing this program, click either Personal Computer or Work Computer.
Click on “Scan”.
To scan your computer with Malwarebytes, click on the “Scan” button. Malwarebytes for Mac will automatically update the antivirus database and start scanning your computer for malware.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will scan your computer for adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious programs. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Click on “Quarantine”.
When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes has detected. To remove the malware that Malwarebytes has found, click on the “Quarantine” button.
Restart computer.
Malwarebytes will now remove all the malicious files that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your computer.
After scanning, delete any detected threats. Your Mac should now be free from adware, unwanted extensions, and other potentially harmful software.
If your current antivirus allowed a malicious program on your computer, you might want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still experiencing problems while trying to remove a malicious program from your computer, please ask for help in our Mac Malware Removal Help & Support forum.
Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Android
Malwarebytes for Android automatically detects and removes dangerous threats like malware and ransomware so you don’t have to worry about your most-used device being compromised. Aggressive detection of adware and potentially unwanted programs keeps your Android phone or tablet running smooth.
Download Malwarebytes for Android.
You can download Malwarebytes for Android by clicking the link below.
In the Google Play Store, tap “Install” to install Malwarebytes for Android on your device.
When the installation process has finished, tap “Open” to begin using Malwarebytes for Android. You can also open Malwarebytes by tapping on its icon in your phone menu or home screen.
Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup process
When Malwarebytes will open, you will see the Malwarebytes Setup Wizard which will guide you through a series of permissions and other setup options. This is the first of two screens that explain the difference between the Premium and Free versions. Swipe this screen to continue. Tap on “Got it” to proceed to the next step. Malwarebytes for Android will now ask for a set of permissions that are required to scan your device and protect it from malware. Tap on “Give permission” to continue. Tap on “Allow” to permit Malwarebytes to access the files on your phone.
Update database and run a scan with Malwarebytes for Android
You will now be prompted to update the Malwarebytes database and run a full system scan.
Click on “Update database” to update the Malwarebytes for Android definitions to the latest version, then click on “Run full scan” to perform a system scan.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will now start scanning your phone for adware and other malicious apps. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Click on “Remove Selected”.
When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes for Android has detected. To remove the malicious apps that Malwarebytes has found, tap on the “Remove Selected” button.
Restart your phone.
Malwarebytes for Android will now remove all the malicious apps that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your device.
When the scan is finished, remove all detected threats. Your Android phone should now be free of malicious apps, adware, and unwanted browser redirects.
If your current antivirus allowed a malicious app on your phone, you may want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your phone after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:
Restore your phone to factory settings by going to Settings > General management > Reset > Factory data reset.
After cleaning your device, it’s important to protect it from future infections and annoying pop-ups. We recommend installing an ad blocker such as AdGuard. AdGuard blocks malicious ads, prevents phishing attempts, and stops dangerous redirects, helping you stay safe while browsing online.
Frequently Asked Questions About the MrBeast Gift Card Scam
Is the MrBeast gift card giveaway real?
No. The MrBeast gift card giveaway is a scam designed to steal personal information and money. MrBeast is not affiliated with it.
How does the MrBeast gift card scam work?
Scammers promote the fake giveaway on social media and direct victims to a phishing site. There users submit emails and complete “verification” offers that generate money for scammers.
What happens when you submit your email on the scam website?
Your email is collected by scammers to send more phishing emails or sell to other scammers. It is not used to send you a gift card.
Why are users asked to complete offers on the phishing site?
The offers make money for scammers through commissions, affiliate fees, and selling user data. Users think it is a verification step but no gift cards are ever delivered.
What type of offers do users have to complete?
Offers may include surveys, downloads, newsletter sign-ups, video views, clicks on links, and providing personal information.
Should I complete the offers to get the gift card?
No. The gift cards are not real. Completing offers will not result in a gift card and only leads to more spam or potential identity theft.
Can I get my money back if I paid for offers?
It is unlikely. The scam website is fraudulent and any payments made are usually impossible to recover or trace. Avoid paying anything.
How can I stay safe from the MrBeast scam?
Avoid clicking links in social posts, do not submit personal info, use unique passwords, and be wary of offers that seem too good to be true.
Can I report the scam?
Yes, you should report it! Report the social media accounts that promoted it and the website to the platforms. You can also report it to the FTC.
How can I identify real vs fake gift card giveaways?
Real giveaways will never ask for sensitive information or money upfront. Research brands and deals thoroughly before participating.
In Conclusion
The free gift card scam impersonating Mr. Beast highlights how scammers adapt popular internet personalities and brands to take advantage of unsuspecting social media users. However, understanding common tactics like fake verification procedures and malware downloads can help the public recognize and avoid these traps. Remaining vigilant against follow-up phishing attempts and reporting scam accounts are also critical to prevent yourself and others from becoming victims. With sound judgment, internet users can steer clear of even sophisticated and viral scams using trusted names like Mr. Beast.
Stelian leverages over a decade of cybersecurity expertise to lead malware analysis and removal, uncover scams, and educate people. His experience provides insightful analysis and valuable perspective.
