Snaptroid 3.0 Scam Explained – How This Snapchat Scam Works
Written by: Thomas Orsolya
Published on:
Have you seen mentions of a tool named Snaptroid 3.0 circulating on social media? Claims that it can access private Snapchat data like locations and My Eyes Only photos? Beware – Snaptroid 3.0 is a scam operation designed to exploit Snapchat users.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll uncover how the Snaptroid 3.0 scam works, tactics it uses to deceive victims, and most crucially – how to avoid becoming ensnared by its social media trickery.
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An Overview Exposing the Snaptroid 3.0 Snapchat Scam
The Snaptroid 3.0 scam is the latest version of a recurring fraudulent scheme targeting Snapchat users. Hosted primarily through the domain Snaptroid.co, this deceptive website promotes itself as a tool able to retrieve and display sensitive, non-public Snapchat user data.
Specific private account details the Snaptroid site claims it can reveal includes:
Real-time location maps showing where any user is currently located
Full lists of a user’s best friends on Snapchat
Access to private “My Eyes Only” images and videos
Ability to view any user’s full Snapchat story and memories
By inputting a target user’s Snapchat username, Snaptroid promises it can then showcase all of the above insights into their activity and connections on Snapchat.
However, this is all an intricately fabricated ruse designed solely to deceive victims and generate illicit profits for the Snaptroid scammers behind it.
In reality, Snaptroid has zero actual capability to retrieve any legitimately private Snapchat user data. The entire premise of the services it promotes on its website is completely falsified and fraudulent.
By luring Snapchat users in under these false pretenses of exposed secrets and insights, the Snaptroid scam is able to manipulate and exploit victims in various unethical ways, including:
Getting users to download unrelated apps containing malware, viruses and spyware by disguising them as “verification tools”
Tricking users into taking spam surveys and subscribing to sketchy services in order to unlock the promised (but fake) Snapchat data
Generating profits from commissions earned on the deceptive downloads and subscriptions users complete
Harvesting user details like phone numbers and emails to sell to third party advertisers and scam operations
Putting users’ devices and Snapchat accounts at risk through malware infections and password theft
Some examples of the extremely dubious and deceptive claims made by the Snaptroid site include:
“Access the private Snapchat stories and memories of ANY Snapchat user”
“See anyone’s My Eyes Only photos regardless of their privacy settings”
“Instantly generate a real-time map showing the exact GPS location of any Snapchat user”
As is hopefully clear, a scam platform like Snaptroid would never be granted access to this level of private Snapchat user data by the app’s developers. But false promises tap into human curiosity and temptation.
Let’s see into how the Snaptroid 3.0 scam unfolds and exploits Snapchat users through deceptive tactics:
How the Snaptroid 3.0 Scam Works
The Snaptroid 3.0 scam employs several unethical techniques to carry out its social media deception:
Step 1: False Service Offer Pages Lure Victims
The Snaptroid.co website promotes “services” claiming to reveal private Snapchat information. Pages highlight the supposed value of exposing locations, My Eyes Only content, friend lists, and more. These irresistible but fake offers create temptation and curiosity.
Step 2: Users Get Redirected to “Verification” Pages
Upon clicking a service button, users get redirected to a “human verification” page rather than receiving any actual Snapchat data. This tricks users into thinking more steps are required before access is granted.
Step 3: Repeated Actions Needed for “Verification”
To get past the endless verification loop, Snaptroid forces users to:
Download unrelated apps and files
Complete spam surveys
Subscribe to sketchy services
Watch ads and videos
Often multiple repetitive steps are demanded, but no data is ever provided.
Step 4: No Snapchat Data Is Ever Disclosed
Despite jumping through hoops, users gain zero actual Snapchat insights. The cycle simply repeats with more verification requirements.
Step 5: Shady Downloads Generate Profits
Snaptroid profits by getting users to complete “verifications” tied to commissions. This includes downloads bundled with malware, trial offers, and subscriptions.
Step 6: User Data Gets Sold and Misused
Any personal information submitted to Snaptroid gets sold to shady third party advertisers, exposing victims to more spam, scams, and data misuse.
As you can see, the deception runs deep with the Snaptroid 3.0 scam. But being aware of the manipulative tactics is key to avoiding becoming victimized.
Tactics Used by Snaptroid 3.0 to Deceive Snapchat Users
Snaptroid relies on various forms of trickery and manipulation, including:
Offering Fabricated Services
No third party can access private Snapchat data like friend lists or location maps. But Snaptroid falsely advertises these services anyway.
Deploying Fake Verification Steps
Endless loops of downloading apps and completing surveys dupe users into thinking verification is required.
Leveraging Curiosity About Others
Promises to expose private Snapchat data take advantage of natural human curiosity and temptation.
Using Clickbait Headlines
Clickbait-style headlines like “Uncover My Eyes Only” or “See Any User’s Location” entice engagement based on temptation versus facts.
Making False Limited Time Offers
Fake countdown timers and limited time messaging create a false sense of urgency and pressure.
Concealing Sponsorship Details
Affiliate links and sponsors for advertised downloads are never disclosed, hiding incentives.
Offering Rewards for Participation
Deceptive promises about earning rewards or coins for completing “verifications” keep the scam cycling.
The more aware you become of these manipulative tactics and how scammers employ them, the less chance you have of falling victim.
Recognizing Red Flags of the Snaptroid 3.0 Scam
Be vigilant about these common red flags that can expose deceptive sites like Snaptroid:
Too-good-to-be-true claims – Private Snapchat data is inaccessible for a reason.
Sketchy downloads – Legit services won’t force unverified app installs for “confirmation.”
Aggressive pop-ups and Ads – Excessive pop-ups and ads signify ulterior profit motives.
Vague descriptions – Using general terms like “premium Snapchat data” without specifics often indicates scam sites.
No connection to Snapchat – Lack of official partnership or endorsement is a major red flag.
Spam and bot comments – Fake comments and testimonials using stock language expose untrustworthy sites.
No verifiable contact info – Lack of legitimate business details linked to the site and owners indicates shady operation.
Repetitive loops – Real verification processes don’t endlessly repeat requirements.
When multiple red flags appear, cease all engagement immediately and avoid sharing any personal data.
Dangers of Providing Data to Snaptroid 3.0
Aside from wasted time, users face significant risks by interacting with Snaptroid:
Malware infections – Downloaded apps and files often contain viruses, Trojans, spyware and adware.
Snapchat account hacking – Username and password details entered can lead to account hijacking.
Identity theft – Personal information is leveraged for credit card fraud and financial theft.
Endless spam texts and calls – Phone numbers provided get sold to shady advertisers and scammers.
Blackmail – Snaptroid may threaten to “expose” details like locations to force more participation in the scam.
The more data points Snaptroid can collect, the greater the risks to your privacy, security and identity. Avoid feeding it any info.
What To Do If You Shared Information with Snaptroid
If you already provided personal data or downloaded anything from Snaptroid, take these steps immediately:
Change passwords for any accounts that may have been exposed or compromised. Enable two-factor authentication on Snapchat and other accounts for enhanced security.
Run malware scans to check for viruses or spyware. Remove anything suspicious that is detected during scans.
Place fraud alerts with credit bureaus to get notifications about new accounts opened in your name, which can indicate identity theft.
Monitor accounts closely for unauthorized access or activity and report any signs of breach. Freeze credit reports if evidence of ID theft emerges.
Avoid communications claiming to be from Snapchat security teams – these “account limitation” warnings are often phishing links from scammers.
How to Avoid Falling Victim to Snapchat Scams
Here are some tips to protect yourself from scams targeting Snapchat users:
Avoid third-party analytics tools – Snapchat prohibits external access to friend lists, locations, stories, and other personal data for good reason – it enables scams.
Use unique passwords for Snapchat accounts – never reuse credentials across multiple sites and apps.
Enable two-factor authentication – Adding an extra verification step blocks scammers from accessing accounts even with stolen passwords.
Watch for “too good to be true” offers about uncovering private details of other users – nothing can legitimately deliver this.
Beware verification scams – Downloading random apps, taking spam surveys, and providing phone numbers won’t unlock anything.
Manage app permissions carefully – Only allow apps you fully trust to access personal data like locations.
Stay vigilant against the endless permutations of social media scams aiming to exploit Snapchat users. Avoid becoming the next victim.
Is Your Device Infected? Check for Malware
If your device is running slowly or acting suspicious, it may be infected with malware. Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free is a great option for scanning your device and detecting potential malware or viruses. The free version can efficiently check for and remove many common infections.
Malwarebytes can run on Windows, Mac, and Android devices. Depending on which operating system is installed on the device you’re trying to run a Malwarebytes scan, please click on the tab below and follow the displayed steps.
Malwarebytes For WindowsMalwarebytes For MacMalwarebytes For Android
Scan your computer with Malwarebytes for Windows to remove malware
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 for Windows
You can download Malwarebytes by clicking the link below.
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.
Your computer should now be free of trojans, adware, browser hijackers, 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:
Scan your computer with Malwarebytes for Mac to remove malware
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.
Your Mac should now be free of adware, browser hijackers, and other malware.
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.
Scan your phone with Malwarebytes for Android to remove malware
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.
Your phone should now be free of adware, browser hijackers, and other malware.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Snaptroid 3.0 Scam Targeting Snapchat Users
1. What exactly is the Snaptroid 3.0 scam?
Snaptroid 3.0 is a deceptive website that falsely promises it can access private Snapchat user data like locations, friend lists, memories, and My Eyes Only content. It tricks users into downloading malware and completing spam offers under the guise of “verification” to unlock promised insights that it cannot actually provide.
2. How does the Snaptroid 3.0 scam work?
The scam operates by promoting tempting but fabricated claims about revealing sensitive Snapchat account details. Users get redirected through endless “verification” loops involving sketchy app downloads, surveys and subscriptions, allowing Snaptroid to profit from commissions.
3. What tactics does Snaptroid 3.0 use to trick Snapchat users?
Tactics include exaggerated claims about access to private data, fake limited-time offers, aggressive pop-up ads, clickbait headlines, endless verification loops, and leveraging human curiosity around social media activity.
4. What are some red flags that expose the Snaptroid scam?
Red flags include lack of connection to Snapchat, too-good-to-be-true claims, repetitive verification steps, vague language, no verifiable contact information, and pushy pop-ups and ads.
5. What risks are there in providing personal data to Snaptroid 3.0?
Major risks include malware infections, identity theft, Snapchat account hijacking, endless spam texts/calls, and blackmail threats to force continued participation in the scam.
6. What should I do if I already entered information on Snaptroid 3.0?
Immediately change passwords, run malware scans, enable two-factor authentication, monitor accounts closely for unauthorized changes, and place fraud alerts with credit bureaus.
7. How can I avoid becoming a victim of the Snaptroid scam?
Avoid third-party analytics sites, use unique passwords, enable two-factor authentication, watch for too-good-to-be-true offers, and beware verification scams demanding downloads or surveys.
8. Can Snaptroid 3.0 actually access my private Snapchats and data?
No, Snaptroid has no legitimate capability whatsoever to retrieve or display private user data from Snapchat. All the promised Snapchat insights are completely fabricated.
9. What is Snapchat’s policy on third-party services like Snaptroid?
Snapchat prohibits third parties from claiming access to private user data like locations, friend lists, memories, etc. Scraping Snapchat data breaches their terms and can risk account termination.
10. How can I report the Snaptroid 3.0 scam?
You can report Snaptroid 3.0 directly to Snapchat as an unauthorized application attempting to access private user data in violation of their terms. Avoid engaging with the site.
The Bottom Line on Snaptroid 3.0
Snaptroid 3.0 employs deceptive techniques to falsely advertise its capabilities, profit from affiliate app installs, harvest user data, and perpetuate viral scams. It cannot actually access or display any exclusive Snapchat user insights.
Avoid interacting with the Snaptroid scam and warning friends to steer clear as well. Never enter personal information or Snapchat account credentials into unverified third-party websites.
How to Stay Safe Online
Here are 10 basic security tips to help you avoid malware and protect your device:
Use a good antivirus and keep it up-to-date.
It's essential to use a good quality antivirus and keep it up-to-date to stay ahead of the latest cyber threats. We are huge fans of Malwarebytes Premium and use it on all of our devices, including Windows and Mac computers as well as our mobile devices. Malwarebytes sits beside your traditional antivirus, filling in any gaps in its defenses, and providing extra protection against sneakier security threats.
Keep software and operating systems up-to-date.
Keep your operating system and apps up to date. Whenever an update is released for your device, download and install it right away. These updates often include security fixes, vulnerability patches, and other necessary maintenance.
Be careful when installing programs and apps.
Pay close attention to installation screens and license agreements when installing software. Custom or advanced installation options will often disclose any third-party software that is also being installed. Take great care in every stage of the process and make sure you know what it is you're agreeing to before you click "Next."
Install an ad blocker.
Use a browser-based content blocker, like AdGuard. Content blockers help stop malicious ads, Trojans, phishing, and other undesirable content that an antivirus product alone may not stop.
Be careful what you download.
A top goal of cybercriminals is to trick you into downloading malware—programs or apps that carry malware or try to steal information. This malware can be disguised as an app: anything from a popular game to something that checks traffic or the weather.
Be alert for people trying to trick you.
Whether it's your email, phone, messenger, or other applications, always be alert and on guard for someone trying to trick you into clicking on links or replying to messages. Remember that it's easy to spoof phone numbers, so a familiar name or number doesn't make messages more trustworthy.
Back up your data.
Back up your data frequently and check that your backup data can be restored. You can do this manually on an external HDD/USB stick, or automatically using backup software. This is also the best way to counter ransomware. Never connect the backup drive to a computer if you suspect that the computer is infected with malware.
Choose strong passwords.
Use strong and unique passwords for each of your accounts. Avoid using personal information or easily guessable words in your passwords. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts whenever possible.
Be careful where you click.
Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. These could potentially contain malware or phishing scams.
Don't use pirated software.
Avoid using Peer-to-Peer (P2P) file-sharing programs, keygens, cracks, and other pirated software that can often compromise your data, privacy, or both.
To avoid potential dangers on the internet, it's important to follow these 10 basic safety rules. By doing so, you can protect yourself from many of the unpleasant surprises that can arise when using the web.
Meet Thomas Orsolya
Thomas is an expert at uncovering scams and providing in-depth reporting on cyber threats and online fraud. As an editor, he is dedicated to keeping readers informed on the latest developments in cybersecurity and tech.
