Don’t Fall for the Viral Bumble Scam Promising Easy Money
Written by: Thomas Orsolya
Published on:
A new wave of online scams promises easy money through social media referrals. Dubbed the “Bumble scam”, these fraudulent schemes lure victims with claims of earning thousands passively if they share referral links. This article will provide an in-depth look at how the Bumble scam operates, enabling readers to avoid falling prey.
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Scam Overview
A new type of viral scam is capitalizing on interest in earning passive income through social media referrals. These scams, commonly known as “Bumble scams”, trap victims by promising easy money if they share referral links and get signups. However, the payouts advertised are completely fictional, and any funds shown in victim accounts exist only on a fabricated dashboard.
Here is a quick look at how the Bumble scam tricks targets:
Scammers drive traffic to persuasive registration pages like Bumble9.com or Bumble360.xyz that promise to pay from $2-$50 for each referral signup. By emphasizing how easy it is to earn from home in your spare time, these pages convince visitors to hand over their personal information to register.
After registering, victims are redirected to dashboards showing an available balance between $300-$500. This provides the illusion that earnings have already accrued from referrals, further reinforcing the scam’s legitimacy.
When victims attempt to withdraw the funds shown in their account, the site imposes impossible requirements that prevent payouts. These include demands for 50+ direct referrals or 10 referrals who each have 10 referrals themselves.
If a victim contacts customer support to inquire about withdrawals, the scammers will instruct them to pay a “verification fee” via cryptocurrency first to unlock payments. This introduces another means for the scammers to steal money.
After accumulating enough victims, the Bumble scam cycles to a new domain name while using the same fraudulent site. Previous iterations have used domains like Bumble7.com, Bumble88.net, and Bumble360.xyz. This rebranding allows the scam to shed negative associations while continuing seamlessly.
The rebranding technique and endless referral requirements enable the Bumble scam to ensnare new victims endlessly. The fabricated balances provide compelling social proof that makes the scam appear highly legitimate. In reality, the site is only displaying fake earnings to deception victims, and no payments ever occur. Avoiding participation in any program promising easy passive income through social media referrals is crucial to avoid getting defrauded through this prevalent viral scam.
How the Bumble Scam Works
The Bumble scam tricks victims through a seamless process maximizing deception. Here is an in-depth look at each step:
Step 1: Luring Registration Pages
The scam starts by driving traffic to registration pages like Bumble9.com and other variants. These showcase persuasive claims of earning $2-$50 per referral and emphasize how easy it is to make money through social media.
The pages use language like “Earn from home”, “Get paid for your free time”, and “Enjoy daily income” to entice registrations. With promises of quick passive income requiring little effort, victims readily hand over their info.
Step 2: Fake Dashboard Displaying False Earnings
Once registered, the site redirects to a dashboard showing an available balance between $300-$500. This gives the false impression that funds have already been earned from referrals.
Below the balance, a widget prompts victims to “Copy Your Referral Link” for earning commissions. These claims reinforce that making money will be effortless.
When victims try withdrawing their balance, the site imposes arbitrary requirements preventing payouts. These include:
Obtaining 50+ referrals before withdrawing.
Getting 10 referrals who each have 10 referrals themselves.
Since these referral levels are extremely difficult, almost no one can withdraw funds. The cycle continues endlessly to trap victims.
Step 4: Deceitful Verification Fees
If victims inquire about withdrawing, support staff claim a one-time verification fee is required first. They direct victims to shady payment portals to pay large fees via cryptocurrency.
Once paid, the site invents new reasons why the verification was declined. The victim rarely sees any payments despite completing this process.
Step 5: Constant Rebranding Using New Domains
After accumulating enough victims, the Bumble scam rebrands itself using new domains tied to the same fraudulent site.
Previous iterations used Bumble4.com, Bumble7.com, and Bumble5.com. The site remains identical – only the domain name changes.
This rebranding allows the scam to shed negative associations while recruiting new victims. By generating fresh domains, the cycle continues indefinitely.
Here is an expanded “What To Do If You Are A Victim” section:
What To Do If You Are A Victim
If you lost money or compromised personal data through a Bumble scam, take these steps immediately to minimize damages:
Contact Financial Institutions and Payment Providers
Act swiftly to contact your bank, credit card provider, or any payment channels used to send money to the scammers. Ask them to halt any transactions that are still processing. The quicker you can stop payments, the better chance you have of recovering funds.
Provide information on when the payments occurred and the entity they were sent to. Point out these were fraudulent transactions to an illegal scam website you now realize was deceiving you.
Reset Passwords and Enable Two-Factor Authentication
If you used the same passwords on the scam site as other legitimate sites, change them immediately. This prevents the scammers from accessing your other accounts. Enable two-factor authentication as well for an added layer of security.
Prioritize changing credentials for any sites holding sensitive personal or financial information to deny scammers access. Monitor these accounts closely for suspicious activity.
Place Fraud Alerts and Monitor Credit Reports
Since scammers now have your personal information, there is risk of identity fraud. Combat this by placing fraud alerts on your credit reports. This requires creditors to verify your identity before opening new accounts, making it harder for scammers to act as you.
Also check your credit reports frequently yourself for any accounts you don’t recognize. Look for inquiries from creditors you didn’t contact yourself as well. Report any suspicious activity to the credit bureau right away.
Report the Scam to Relevant Agencies
To assist getting scam websites shut down, report your experience to agencies like:
FTC Complaint Assistant
FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)
BBB Scam Tracker
Provide details on the website, account names, payment channels, and any other relevant information. The more reports these agencies receive, the stronger the case for investigating and prosecuting the scammers.
Spread Awareness of the Scam
Post about your experience on social media and write online reviews warning others of the Bumble scam. Describe the red flags you overlooked and what you learned to help others avoid being victimized. This raises public awareness of the scam’s deceptive tactics.
By taking these steps, you can contain the damage from any Bumble scam encounter and prevent yourself from being victimized again in the future. Protect yourself and help safeguard others by acting quickly.
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.
The Bumble scam is an online fraud promising users easy money if they share referral links and get signups. Users are directed to sites like Bumble9.com and asked to register. After signing up, they see dashboard balances of $300-$500, implying they’ve already earned money. However, funds can never be withdrawn due to endless referral requirements invented by the scammers. The goal is to steal personal information and convince victims to pay fake “verification fees.”
2. How does the Bumble scam work?
The scam begins by driving traffic to persuasive registration pages promising payments per referral, typically $2-$50. After registering, users are shown dashboards with balances already earned to reinforce legitimacy. When withdrawing funds, impossible requirements are imposed, like 50 direct referrals. If users contact support, they are told to pay a fee to “verify” their account and unlock withdrawals. The cycle continues as the site rebrands under new domains to find new victims.
3. What are some examples of Bumble scam websites?
Some known examples of scam domains used are Bumble9.com, Bumble360.xyz, Bumble7.com, Bumble88.net, and Bumble500.com. The site is rebranded regularly using new domains tied to the same fraudulent company. The format often includes “Bumble” and a number.
4. How can you identify the Bumble scam?
Red flags include promises of easy money by sharing links, earnings dashboards showing balances before you’ve done any work, extremely difficult withdrawal requirements, and demands for account verification fees. Avoid any site promoting easy income through referrals.
5. How much money can you make with the Bumble scam?
You cannot earn any money through Bumble scams – any balances shown are fabricated with the intent to deceive. No funds can ever be withdrawn, as endless excuses will be invented requiring more referrals or fees. All money sent is lost to the scammers.
6. Is Bumble the dating app associated with this scam?
No, the popular dating app Bumble is not involved. The scammers simply use “Bumble” in their website names to give legitimacy through brand recognition. Do not trust any site promising easy money related to Bumble.
7. What should you do if you are a victim of the Bumble scam?
Contact your bank to halt payments, reset passwords on compromised accounts, place fraud alerts with credit bureaus, report the scam to authorities, and spread awareness about the scam online to help protect others. Learn more about recovering here [link to victim section].
8. How can you avoid the Bumble scam?
Be wary of promised passive income opportunities online requiring little work, especially through referral programs. Check site legitimacy, read reviews, and search if the domain is associated with scams. Avoid entering personal info or payment details into any suspicious platform.
9. Are Bumble scams illegal?
Yes, Bumble scams violate various laws against online fraud, deceptive advertising, and identity theft. However, most operate overseas using fake business identities, making prosecutions challenging. Reporting scams helps law enforcement pursue legal action when possible.
10. Who typically gets targeted for Bumble scams?
Anyone looking to earn extra income online in their spare time can be targeted. Students, stay-at-home parents, retirees, and remote workers often get ensnared given the promises of easy passive money through social media. Be vigilant and never provide personal data to earn income online.
The Bottom Line
The Bumble scam exploits promises of passive income via social media referrals. Using deception at every stage, the scam ensnares countless victims lured by seemingly easy money.
Avoiding any website promoting similar money-making schemes protects you from losing money in this viral scam. Exercise extreme caution with promised income opportunities requiring only referral sharing to maximize safety online.
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.
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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.
