Scrolling through Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, or another social media platform, you may come across an ad offering an incredible deal. Maybe it’s a designer product at a fraction of the usual price, a limited-time promotion, or an investment opportunity promising big returns.
The ad may look completely legitimate. It may even use the name, logo, and images of a well-known company. But appearances can be deceiving.
Social Media Ads Aren’t Always What They Seem
Seeing an advertisement on a trusted social media platform does not necessarily mean the company or offer has been fully verified.
Scammers can create advertisements that imitate legitimate businesses, promote counterfeit products, or direct you to websites designed to steal your money or personal information. Some scams even use familiar brands to make their offers appear more trustworthy.
According to the Federal Trade Commission, consumers reported losing more than $95 million in 2025 to scams that began with an advertisement on social media. Since many people never report scams, the actual amount lost may be significantly higher.
Before You Click, Take a Closer Look
If an offer on social media seems too good to be true, take a moment to investigate before making a purchase.
Here are a few simple steps to protect yourself:
- Research the company. Search for the business name along with words such as “scam,” “complaint,” or “reviews.”
- Check the website address. Make sure you are visiting the company’s legitimate website and not a lookalike site.
- Be cautious with unbelievable deals. Extremely low prices, urgent offers, and limited-time pressure are common tactics used by scammers.
- Don’t assume a familiar logo means it’s legitimate. Scammers can copy the branding of well-known companies.
- Think before sharing information. Avoid providing payment details, passwords, or other personal information until you know who you’re dealing with.
- Be careful with investment offers. Promises of guaranteed profits or easy money should always raise a red flag.
Why Are These Ads Showing Up in Your Feed?
Social media platforms can use information about your online activity, interests, and shopping habits to personalize the advertisements you see. This can make scams particularly convincing because the ad may appear to be specifically targeted to you.
Reviewing your privacy and advertising settings can help you understand how your information is being used and give you more control over the ads you see.
If You See a Scam, Report It
If you come across a suspicious advertisement or lose money in a scam, don’t simply ignore it. Report the advertisement through the social media platform and consider reporting the scam to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
Think Before You Click
A professional-looking advertisement isn’t proof that an offer is legitimate. Before clicking, buying, or sharing personal information, take a moment to verify who is behind the ad.
When it comes to online scams, a few extra seconds of caution can help protect your money, your information, and your identity.
RDE Technologies
Helping you stay informed, connected, and secure.