Beware! 17 Sneaky TikTok Scams Stealing Money and Data
Written by: Stelian Pilici
Published on:
TikTok has exploded in popularity in recent years, amassing over 1 billion monthly active users. However, with such a massive audience, the platform has also become a hotbed for scammers trying to take advantage of users.
This article will provide an overview of the most common TikTok scams, how they work, and tips to avoid falling victim. Being aware of the latest techniques fraudsters use can help you keep your account secure.
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An Overview of Scamming on TikTok
As a platform centered around short videos and viral trends, TikTok makes it easy for scams to spread quickly to a large audience. Scammers use the social network in a variety of ways:
Impersonation – Fraudsters open accounts posing as celebrities, brands or influencers to build a large following. They then leverage their fake popularity to promote malicious links or content.
Fake Money-Making Promises – Accounts promise viewers easy ways to make money by simply sharing posts, liking content, or sending an upfront registration fee. Of course, the promised payouts never come.
Phishing – Scammers send direct messages or advertise in comments with links tricking users to enter their TikTok login credentials on fake pages. Their account gets hijacked once credentials are harvested.
Malware Distribution – Links posted on TikTok profiles and in video descriptions can lead to sites harboring viruses and malware when clicked. This gives criminals access toviewer’s devices and data.
Predatory Behavior – Scammers use psychological manipulation to build online relationships with victims to eventually extract money through sob stories, romance scams, and fake emergencies.
TikTok has security teams dedicated to identifying and removing policy-violating content, phishing attempts, and scam accounts. However, new fraudulent accounts pop up constantly as scammers work to evade protections.
Awareness of common techniques is the best way for users to avoid getting ensnared in a scam. Let’s examine the most common TikTok scams to watch out for.
17 Common TikTok Scams to Watch Out For
1. Fake Account Verification
This scam starts with users receiving a direct message that appears to come from TikTok’s official account. The message claims the user needs to verify their account for certain privileges like getting a verification badge or more visibility and followers.
A link is provided to carry out the verification, but it actually leads to a fake login page designed to steal usernames and passwords. Once credentials are harvested, the scammer can take over the victim’s account fully.
Sometimes the links lead users to fill out questionnaires about their TikTok account habits and demographics. This data helps scammers refine their targeting for future scams.
How to Avoid It
TikTok states they will never message users asking them to verify their accounts. The platform has an internal verification process that users cannot initiate themselves.
Remember these tips to avoid verification scams:
Never click direct links in messages asking you to login or verify your account.
Double check that any messages are coming from TikTok’s official verified account @tiktok before following instructions.
Manually open the TikTok app or navigate to TikTok.com when trying to access your account rather than using links.
2. Fake Follower Generators
Who wouldn’t want more followers on TikTok? Scammers exploit this desire by promoting links and apps claiming to drastically increase your follower count for free. They advertise through comments, direct messages, and on fake TikTok accounts.
The links usually direct to third-party websites prompting users to input their TikTok credentials to activate the followers generator. Once login details are harvested, the account gets stolen.
In other cases, the links install adware, spyware or other malware onto devices that tracks browsing habits, shows intrusive pop-up ads, and steals personal data.
How to Avoid It
Remember that growth on TikTok occurs gradually with consistent engaging content. There are no shortcuts for suddenly amassing a huge follower count, so be wary of any offers that seem too good to be true.
To avoid follower scams:
Never click on suspicious links from strangers promising more followers.
Don’t download any apps outside of official app stores guaranteeing more followers.
Always manually type TikTok.com into your browser when accessing your account. Avoid using links.
3. Celebrity and Influencer Impersonation
Scammers are constantly impersonating popular TikTok celebrities by making accounts using their names, profile pictures, and stolen content from their pages.
Posing as celebrities, they interact with followers to appear legitimate. Eventually they promote affiliate links, products, or crypto/gambling schemes to their duped fans, earning commission or money from anyone they swindle.
Some red flags include misspelled profile names, low follower counts, and no verification badge. But recently scammers have gotten better at making the accounts seem authentic.
How to Avoid It
Check that celebrity accounts are verified with a blue badge before believing they are real. Impersonators will lack this.
Look for slight abnormalities in spellings of the username. Scammers often use an extra letter or number.
Search the celebrity’s real social media sites like Twitter or Instagram to see if they have warned about impersonators.
Don’t purchase any products or click affiliate links promoted by celebrity accounts without verifying authenticity first.
Report the account if you believe it is impersonating someone. TikTok moderators can remove the account.
4. Money Flipping Scams
Many viewers are drawn in by accounts promoting easy opportunities to double or even triple your money instantly. These scammers promise to send back doubled funds to anyone who first sends crypto or gift cards to their account to register.
Once victims send the “registration fees”, the scammer blocks them. Some will engage further and make up reasons why more registration funds are required before sending the promised returns. Eventually victims just keep sending more money, never getting paid out.
How to Avoid It
No legitimate money doubling services exist online. Remember these tips:
Ignore offers that promise to multiply and return any money sent to them – these are always scams.
Never send gift cards, crypto, or money transfers to strangers or accounts promising unrealistic returns.
Report money flipping accounts to TikTok when you see them. Promoting these services violates content policies.
5. Romance Scams
Lonely hearts on TikTok may be targeted by romance scammers. These accounts build online relationships through flattering comments and chats. Once they have gained someone’s trust, they up the ante by asking for money.
Scammers have invented sob stories to exploit, claiming they desperately need funds for medical bills, lawyer fees, stolen credit cards, or travel to finally meet you. Using psychological tactics, victims get manipulated into sending cash or gift card redemption numbers.
How to Avoid It
Never send money to someone you haven’t met in person, no matter how strong the virtual bond seems.
Conduct reverse image searches on profile pictures to see if they are fake or taken from somewhere else online.
Talking marriage, making lavish future plans, or pressing for financial help too quickly are red flags of a scam.
Ask yourself why this person cannot cover supposed expenses with their own money if they are truly in an emergency.
6. Brand Impersonation
Big brand names like Amazon, Apple, Walmart, Elon Musk’s companies, and more have all been impersonated on TikTok at some point. Scammers benefit from the inherent trust people have in major brands.
The fake brand accounts engage with followers to appear legit. Eventually they will promote giveaways, free products, cryptocurrency events and other phony promotions to fool viewers.
Often there is a link attached sending victims to an external site to collect supposed prizes. But the site either steals login credentials or is riddled with device-hijacking malware.
How to Avoid It
Verify a blue checkmark from TikTok that indicates an official brand account before believing it.
Search for the brand’s website for any scam warnings about impersonators on TikTok specifically.
Official brand accounts will never promote giveaways or free product offers directly in exchange for clicking strange links.
7. Fake Verification Badge Offers
All TikTok users likely want their account to get the coveted blue verification badge indicating legitimacy and authenticity. Knowing this, scammers send fake chat messages claiming they can get your account officially verified.
The messages provide links to websites where users must fill out forms with personal data and TikTok account metrics for verification. In reality, you cannot request verification yourself – TikTok grants badges only to select prominent accounts.
Falling for this scam can result in your personal information being used for identity theft. Criminals may also gain access to your account.
How to Avoid It
You can only get an official TikTok verification badge directly from TikTok through their internal processes. Remember:
No third-party service or person can get your account verified. Ignore all offers.
Never input your personal data, account login details, or any metrics into third-party websites.
Official TikTok accounts will never message you promising verification in exchange for your information.
8. Gift Card Scams
Gift card scams typically involve scammers requesting payment in the form of gift card codes rather than directly sending money. The reason is that gift cards are much harder to trace back to the scammer.
Once victims purchase cards and scratch off the codes, the scammers redeem them immediately and the funds disappear. At that point there is no way to reverse the transfer or track where the money went.
Scammers may use various pretexts to request gift cards, like promising investment returns, loans, online purchases, or claiming to be family members in an emergency.
How to Avoid It
It’s nearly impossible to recover funds paid via gift cards. Protect yourself with these tips:
Never purchase gift cards for online strangers even if they promise reimbursement.
Legitimate businesses and agencies will never ask for payment to be made specifically in gift cards.
Only buy gift cards as presents for people you know – not as a method to pay unknown contacts.
9. Malicious Links in Bios
It has become common for scammers to place malicious links in their TikTok bio descriptions. They advertise the links with enticing captions claiming free rewards, content downloads, coupon codes, etc. as incentives to click.
However, the links install malware, steal login credentials, or redirect to outside sites containing even more harmful links. Links in bios pose a threat because they can be changed instantly and are visible to an account’s entire audience.
How to Avoid It
Do not click links in bios from accounts you do not know or trust. They rarely lead anywhere beneficial.
Hover over links to inspect the full URL destination before clicking. Watch for odd or shortened URLs.
Enable link previews where possible so you can preview content without actually opening the link.
Be wary of links promising exclusive content, account generators, free products, or password removers.
10. Fake Charities
Crisis events and natural disasters often bring out scammers pretending to raise charity donations through TikTok. Using emotional manipulation and urgency, they try convincing viewers to donate to their fake causes.
For example, accounts popped up during the Ukraine invasion with fabricated tales of sending donations directly to people in need. In reality they just kept donations for personal gain.
The scammers capitalize on people’s generosity and desire to provide aid when it’s needed most. But the money never reaches any real charities or victims.
How to Avoid It
Research any supposed charities independently through charity watchdog sites before donating to ensure legitimacy.
Official charity accounts will be verified with a blue badge. Avoid accounts lacking verification.
Legitimate organizations will not pressure you to donate immediately with emotionally manipulative tactics.
Stick to reputable charities like Red Cross and United Way when looking for trusted recipients.
11. Money-Making Promises
Fraudulent accounts promise viewers large sums of money or expensive prizes like iPhones and gift cards in exchange for a small upfront payment or their personal information.
For example, a scammer may claim that a celebrity like Charli D’Amelio or Khaby Lame will be giving away $10,000 to a random lucky follower who likes and shares a post. Users are convinced to first send a “registration” or “transfer” fee of $5-10 to the scammer’s account before the big payoff.
Of course, after users send their money, they never receive the promised rewards. Scammers pocket the small fees and disappear once they have enough victims. The celebrity names being used to lure people in are completely fabricated.
These scams play psychological tricks to convince viewers they can earn big money or prizes for little effort. People let their guard down in hopes of randomly being selected for massive rewards.
How to Avoid It
Remember that legitimate giveaways will never require you to first send cash, gift cards, or reveal personal information to enter or claim a prize. The enormous rewards being offered are always completely fake. Be wary of offers that sound too good to be true. Report suspicious accounts to TikTok immediately.
12. Imposter Accounts
Scammers open accounts impersonating celebrities, influencers, brands and public figures, aiming to appear legit to gain followers. Imposters steal profile pictures, videos, and content from real accounts and repress them as their own.
Posing as someone famous, they try to direct victims to click links in bios to external websites for fraudulent crypto “investment” opportunities, fake donations benefiting non-existent charities, and phishing attempts to steal login credentials.
For example, an account may pretend to be Kim Kardashian. After compiling a convincing feed of stolen videos and pictures, they tell followers to click a link to double any cryptocurrency deposits to steal funds.
By imitating popular figures, the fake accounts seem trustworthy. But the links they promote point to dangerous sites and malware designed to steal money and personal information.
How to Avoid It
Carefully inspect accounts for verification checkmarks before believing they are authentic. Search for online warnings about the account being an imposter. Avoid tapping any links from unverified accounts.
13. Chatbot Accounts
Chatbots are automated accounts controlled by scripts rather than actual people. They are programmed to communicate and respond to you in an effort to build familiarity before redirecting to malicious links.
You may suspect it’s a bot if responses seem generic, keep repeating, or don’t make sense in the context of your conversation. Their goal is to keep you engaged long enough to earn your trust before prompting you to click unsafe links or profiles.
For example, after some friendly small talk, the chatbot may say something like “Wow! My friend just built this awesome new app, you should really go check it out here: [suspicious link]”
The links bots provide often contain malware payloads, phishing attempts to steal credentials, or simply lead to more scammy content.
How to Avoid It
Don’t extensively engage with brand new accounts showing interest in you. Be wary of repeated phrases and strange responses. Never click links sent by questionable accounts.
14. Phishing Attempts
Scammers are constantly sending out emails and messages impersonating TikTok. They pretend to offer verification badges, increased followers, sponsorships, or other opportunities.
The messages ask you to click a link in order to claim the offer or fix an account issue. However, the links actually direct to convincing fake login pages design to steal your username and password.
For example, you may get a message saying “Confirm your TikTok verification badge here” with a link attached. But it actually leads to a fake page to capture your credentials.
By obtaining your login information, hackers gain full access to your account. They can then change passwords, delete videos, post dangerous links, or take over the account entirely.
How to Avoid It
Remember TikTok will never ask for your current password. Avoid clicking direct links in messages, emails, comments or bios. Instead type TikTok.com directly into your browser if you want to access your account.
15. Adult Content Scams
Fraudulent accounts promise adult-only content, inappropriate videos, and other mature material in exchange for upfront fees, credit card information, or getting redirected to external websites.
However, their intent is mainly to steal banking and personal information. Any initial content they provide is usually stolen from elsewhere. The external sites they link to also deploy spyware and malware.
For example, a scammer may say you can access exclusive adult content by clicking a link in their bio and entering your credit card info on the site it leads to. But in reality, it’s just a scam to get your financial details.
Scammers have no plans to deliver on any promised adult content. The credit card details entered get stolen and the shady websites infect devices.
How to Avoid It
Never share banking, credit card, or other personal information randomly online, even through direct messages. Only access adult content on well-known paid platforms with security measures in place.
16. Counterfeit Goods Sales
As TikTok’s influencer culture has grown, counterfeit goods scams have emerged for luxury brands. Scammers set up fake online storefronts claiming to sell heavily discounted designer items.
For example, a listing may offer authentic Gucci bags for 70% off or Rolex watches for 80% below retail. However, customers end up receiving shoddy knockoffs worth a fraction of what they paid. Sellers disappear after payments are received.
Scammers know real luxury goods hold value and demand. By faking discounts, they convince shoppers these are wholesale prices or liquidated inventory being cleared out. In reality, anyone can list fake goods online using stolen stock images.
How to Avoid It
Verify all sellers have a blue checkmark from TikTok Shopping indicating they are approved. Search for reviews indicating scam warnings. Only buy from reputable retailers you recognize, not social media ads.
17. Malicious App Promotion
Criminals promote scam apps through fake TikTok accounts and direct viewers to download them. However, these apps end up infecting devices to steal personal data, spam intrusive ads, enable surveillance, and slow phones to a crawl.
For example, you may see an ad for a “free music downloader” or “unlimited viewer bot” app that seems too good to be true. The real intent is to infect your phone and turn it into a bot that can be remotely controlled.
The apps act as trojans and keyloggers to takeover devices while delivering constant ads. The criminals get paid for driving installs while your phone becomes overloaded with bugs.
How to Avoid It
Never download any apps promoted on TikTok without carefully researching them first on reputable app review sites. Check user reviews and ratings to confirm legitimacy before installing anything unfamiliar.
What to Do If You Have Fallen Victim to a TikTok Scam
Despite the best precautions, some users still end up falling for TikTok scams and losing money or access to their accounts. If you unfortunately have become a victim, here are some steps to take:
Report the Fraudulent Account to TikTok
The first thing you should do is report the scammer’s account within the TikTok app itself. Here’s how to do that:
Tap the arrow icon to access the account’s profile page.
Tap the three horizontal dot menu icon in the upper right corner.
Select “Report” from the options.
Choose “Report Account” and select “Scam or Fraud” as the reason.
Provide any relevant details about the scam in the additional info box.
Reporting the account alerts TikTok’s moderators who can investigate the account and remove it if it violates policies around illegal behavior, scams, and spam. This helps wipe the scammer off TikTok.
Check for a Badge Reversal Process
If your account was fraudulently awarded a verification badge as part of a scam, try TikTok’s badge removal process:
File an appeal at TikTok’s appeal form website: https://support.tiktok.com/en/appeal
Select “Account – Verification badge” as the appeal type.
Explain how the badge was obtained fraudulently under the “Subject” details.
Add any evidence you have proving the verification was a scam.
Hopefully TikTok can investigate and remove the illegally obtained verification badge.
Reset Your TikTok Password
If your TikTok credentials were potentially compromised as part of a scam, immediately change your password to lock the scammer out:
Open TikTok and tap your profile icon.
Tap the three line menu button and choose “Manage account”.
Tap “Change password”.
Enter a new strong password you don’t use anywhere else.
Enabling two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security requiring an access code to log in each time.
You can also review linked accounts on your profile to remove any unfamiliar connections.
Report Phishing Links
If you came across a phishing link or site as part of a scam, you can report it directly to TikTok via their suspicious link reporting form: https://www.tiktok.com/legal/report/phish.
Submitting phishing links helps TikTok identify and block them to prevent more victims.
Contact Your Bank
If you shared financial account information or paid scammers with a credit or debit card, contact your bank’s fraud department as soon as possible.
Let them know your account may be compromised. You can request a new account number, get fraudulent charges reversed, or set up transaction monitoring to protect your funds.
Cancel Stolen Gift Cards
If scammers managed to obtain gift card redemption codes from you, try canceling the cards immediately:
Call the gift card issuer’s customer service line and ask if they can cancel funds not redeemed yet.
Provide the gift card number, store purchased from, and approximate time/date to help with cancellations.
Some stores may be able to place a temporary hold cancelling a card if contacted quickly enough after purchase.
If cards were fully spent, unfortunately those funds cannot be recovered or traced.
Reset Hacked Passwords
Think about anywhere else you may have reused the same TikTok password that could now be compromised. Update your login credentials anywhere a matching password was used:
Social media accounts
Email accounts
Bank/financial accounts
Online merchant accounts
Gaming accounts
Using the same password across accounts means one hacked password jeopardizes everything. Create unique, complex passwords for every account going forward.
Monitor Your Credit
If any personal information was handed to scammers, they may use it for identity theft or open unauthorized accounts in your name. Sign up for a free credit monitoring service to keep tabs on your reports and alert you to any scammer activity.
Credit Karma – Tracks TransUnion reports
Credit Sesame – Monitors Experian credit scores
Identity Guard – Provides alerts for suspicious activity
Seek Legal Action
For large scam losses, you may want to pursue formal legal action by reporting the crime to the police and filing a case with the court system. An attorney can help explain legal options:
Report scams to the police – File a formal report about the scam with local law enforcement or through the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center. This creates an official record.
Sue in small claims court – If you have the scammer’s identifiable information, take them to small claims court to recoup losses. An attorney can help navigate this.
Hire a lawyer – For high losses, a lawyer may be able to negotiate or facilitate asset seizure and repayment. Legal expertise can also facilitate police investigations.
Protect Yourself from Scams on TikTok
Sticking to legitimate TikTok accounts from recognized creators, brands, and organizations is the best way to avoid encountering scams on the platform. Here are key tips to follow:
Enable two-factor authentication – Require an access code as well as a password to log in from unrecognized devices. This prevents account takeovers.
Avoid clicking direct links – Never open links sent in messages or comments. Manually navigate to sites instead of trusting links.
Research accounts – Verify suspicious accounts by looking up the username’s reputation online or contacting the purported brand/organization directly.
Beware follow/like farming – Offers of free followers or likes will inflate your metrics but bring an inactive, useless audience.
Customize privacy settings – Limit account discovery, incoming messages and comments to trusted users only. Restrict your content visibility where helpful.
Report suspicious behavior – Notify TikTok of any scams or fraud you encounter by tapping report options on profiles, messages, comments and videos.
Keep software updated – Ensure your devices have the latest security patches and anti-virus software to reduce malware risks. Don’t jailbreak devices as that disables protections.
Avoid oversharing – Be cautious posting extremely personal information publicly on your profile or in comments that scammers can exploit to manipulate you. Limit financial talk.
Seek verification badges – Official checkmarks on larger brand, celebrity and organization accounts confirm legitimacy. Lack of verification is a red flag.
Beware gambling/crypto promoters – Investments involving cryptocurrency or online gambling through unregulated websites advertised on TikTok are extremely risky. Many are scams aiming to pilfer deposits.
Never pay for advertising – TikTok prohibits promoting services that guarantee things like followers, likes and verification. Don’t pay anyone claiming they can improve your standing.
Purchase goods only through reputable sellers – Vet merchants thoroughly before purchasing items advertised on TikTok to avoid counterfeit product scams.
By exercising caution around sharing any sensitive information online, avoiding sketchy links, doing research before transacting, and reporting shady activity when encountered, TikTok users can protect themselves from the growing threat of scams on the platform.
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.
Warning signs of a scam account include a lack of a verification badge, posts focused on money-making promises, links to external websites, prices that seem too good to be true, and requests for personal information. Do research on unfamiliar accounts before interacting.
Should I click on links that TikTok accounts share?
In general, it’s best not to click links in bios, posts, or messages from accounts you don’t know. Manually type in web addresses instead. Hover over a link to inspect the URL for anything suspicious before clicking.
What should I do if someone is impersonating me on TikTok?
First, report the impersonating account. Provide TikTok with evidence proving you are the real person being impersonated. Changing your profile name or bio to say “official” or “real” can help differentiate.
Can I get my money back if I paid a scammer?
Unfortunately, it is very difficult to recover money sent to scammers. Contact your bank immediately to halt further transfers and have fraudulent charges reversed. Police reports and legal action may help for large losses.
Why do scammers ask for gift card codes?
Scammers prefer gift cards because they can quickly redeem codes for cash that cannot be traced like direct bank transfers. Never purchase gift cards for strangers online even if promised reimbursement.
Is verifying my account on a third-party website safe?
No, there are no legitimate third-party services that can verify your TikTok account or get you a verified badge. These are scams aimed at stealing your login details or personal information.
Can I get banned from TikTok for using follower generators?
Yes, using third-party services promising free followers or likes violates TikTok’s terms of service, often resulting in account bans. Earn followers organically by making engaging content.
How do I check if a charity account is real or fake?
Research the charity name independently through watchdog groups like Charity Navigator and ensure it matches exactly. Fake accounts often use slight misspellings or variations of real charity names.
What steps should I take if my TikTok is hacked?
Immediately change your TikTok password and enable two-factor authentication. Remove any unfamiliar linked accounts under settings. Report the account theft to TikTok. Also change any passwords reused elsewhere.
Can I sue a scammer who defrauded me?
You may be able to take legal action depending on the losses and whether you have identifying information about the scammer. Police reports and lawyers can assist with navigating court claims and asset seizure.
Being aware of common TikTok scams and exercising caution online goes a long way in protecting yourself from fraud. Report any suspicious activity and think carefully before clicking questionable links, sharing personal information, or sending money. Stay vigilant against the latest scam tactics threatening TikTok users.
Conclusion
As TikTok has joined the ranks of mainstream social media juggernauts, it has attracted droves of scammers targeting opportunities to take advantage of unsuspecting users. Awareness of common techniques these fraudsters employ is vital to avoid getting ensnared.
This guide has outlined 10 top scams to watch out for, spanning phishing attempts, impersonators, fraudulent money-making offers, fake prizes/donations, gift card schemes, romance scams, and malware distribution.
Knowing what to look out for and using caution around sharing any personal information or clicking questionable links can help users steer clear of the growing threat of TikTok scams. Report any suspicious activity when encountered, and be selective when engaging with new accounts.
While TikTok works to root out scammers, ultimately protecting your account, data, and money against the latest techniques falls largely on users. Staying vigilant for signs of frauds can help preserve the fun of TikTok and minimize the risks. Share this article to spread awareness about these scams to others in your community.
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 Stelian Pilici
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.
