Twitter Scams: Here’s how to spot them!

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Twitter is a social media network that is a great way to stay in touch with what is happening in the world. You can take a look into celebrity lives, connect with your local business and communicate with friends.


However, not everyone that uses Twitter is there to use it in a positive way, many users are on Twitter to try and scam you.

So how can you spot a Twitter scam?

At the moment Twitter scams seem to be targeting the financial world because almost all users like to stay involved with their bank online.

For the common user, these scams can be quite hard to spot.

So firstly, a Twitter user may need help logging onto their account or they simply have a general question. A scammer will join in the legitimate conversation and steer it towards them. How do they do this so easily? The answer is that they use a fake profile they have created.

These fake profiles can easily trick users because they are so hard to spot! Spend a few minutes studying the profile and you will see that it is a fake and once you do you will keep yourself and your PC safe.

These fake Twitter accounts can mimic almost anyone like celebrities, actual business and even people you think you know. This scam is not only happening on Twitter but many other social media networks, including Facebook.


So how do you spot a fake and protect yourself?

It can be difficult at first, but one of the first things you should look at is their Twitter handle. Each and every reputable account that is held by a big name or company will be verified, that means they’ll have a blue verified badge to show that their Twitter account is real and can be trusted.

Scammers will create fake profile handles that have slight differences that cannot be easily seen like an extra letter, etc.

Another important thing to look out for is what they are asking you? When it comes down to your bank, they will not discuss your private information in public, so if they’re asking you to click on a link to verify your info, always be wary!

If you are in doubt, don’t do it! Do not click on any old link or give out information to just anyone. Rather call your bank yourself and let them assist you over the phone.


At the OSINT division we are here to help you. If you feel you’ve been the victim of a Twitter scam or you’d simply like to know more, please contact us on 021 110 0422 or email contact@osint.co.za

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