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How to Recognize a Fake Social Media Giveaway

Avoid fake prize messages that request fees, credentials, or payment information.

Quick Answer

Verify the giveaway through the organization's known official account/site and never pay a fee or provide a verification code to receive an unexpected prize.

Step by Step

  1. Use the platform's official app or website and confirm you are signed into the intended account.
  2. Verify the giveaway through the organization's known official account/site and never pay a fee or provide a verification code to receive an unexpected prize.
  3. Review privacy, audience, recipient, or recovery settings before confirming important changes.
  4. For account-security problems, secure the associated email account and enable two-factor authentication when available.

If That Doesn't Work

  • Social-media menus and features change frequently and can differ by device, account type, region, and app version.
  • Do not send money, passwords, one-time verification codes, or sensitive personal information to an account merely because its name or photo looks familiar.