Telegram Scams: Modus Operandi, Signs, and How to Avoid Them

Telegram has become one of the most widely used messaging apps due to its advanced features and flexibility. However, its popularity has also attracted the attention of cybercriminals. Cases of Telegram scams are on the rise, with various methods that are often hard for users to detect.

To help you avoid falling victim to these online crimes, this article will discuss the modus operandi of Telegram scams, signs of online scams, and how to report them. Additionally, we’ll cover tips for using Telegram safely to protect your data and privacy.

Common Modus Operandi of Telegram Scams

Telegram scams usually involve various techniques to manipulate victims into sharing personal information or money. Here are some of the most common scams:

1. Fake Investment Schemes Scammers often invite victims to a Telegram scam group claiming to be an investment community. They promise large returns in a short period. After the victim transfers money, the scammer disappears or blocks the victim from the group.
2. Fake Giveaway Scams This scam typically starts with a direct message (DM) from a Telegram account claiming to be hosting a giveaway. Victims are asked to pay a “handling fee” to claim the prize. Legitimate giveaways never ask for payment.
3. Impersonating Official Accounts Scammers create fake Telegram accounts that resemble official institutions such as banks, e-commerce platforms, or government bodies. They then contact the victim asking for personal data, such as credit card numbers or OTPs.
4. Fake Product Sales Scammers offer products at suspiciously low prices in Telegram buy/sell groups. After the victim transfers the money, the product is never shipped.
5. Phishing via Links In this scam, the perpetrator sends a fake link that directs the victim to a fraudulent Telegram login page. After the victim enters their login credentials, the scammer gains control of the victim’s account.
6. Part-Time Job Watching Videos for Commission A newer scam involves offering part-time work where the task is to watch videos on a particular app. Victims are promised small commissions for each video watched. Initially, they receive small payouts to build trust, but later, they are asked to deposit money to increase their commission level. After the deposit is made, the scammer vanishes along with the victim’s money.

Signs of Online Scams on Telegram

To avoid becoming a victim, it’s important to recognize the signs of online scams that are common on Telegram. Here are some red flags to watch out for:

1. Too-Good-to-Be-True Offers If someone offers investments or products with unrealistically high returns, be suspicious. Scammers often lure victims with promises that are too good to be true.
2. Asking for Personal Data or OTP Legitimate services will never ask for sensitive data, such as OTPs, passwords, or account numbers, via private messages.
3. Urgency or Pressure to Act Quickly Scammers often pressure victims to transfer money or provide information quickly without thinking.
4. Unverified Accounts If the account contacting you lacks an official verification check, be cautious.
5. Requesting Payment via Unusual Methods Scammers typically ask for payment through untraceable methods like transferring money to a personal account or using unverified e-wallets.

How to Report a Telegram Scam

If you become a victim of, or suspect a Telegram scam, it’s essential to report the incident immediately. Here are the steps to do so:

1. Report the Account on Telegram Telegram has a built-in feature for reporting accounts. You can click on the scammer’s profile and select the “Report” option to report the account.
2. Report to Authorities If the scam involves significant financial loss, file a report at your local police station, providing evidence like screenshots of conversations, transfer receipts, and the scammer’s identity, if available.
3. Use Online Complaint Channels The Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (Kominfo) in some countries offers an online platform for reporting cybercrimes. You can report a Telegram scam through this channel.
4. Report to Banks or E-Wallet Services If the scam involves money transfers, immediately report it to your bank or e-wallet provider so they can block or trace the transaction.

Tips for Staying Safe on Telegram

To avoid Telegram scams, follow these safety tips to protect your account and personal information:

1. Use Maximum Privacy Settings Enable privacy features on Telegram, such as hiding your phone number, online status, and profile picture from strangers.
2. Verify Links Before Clicking Never click on links from unknown sources. If in doubt, check the authenticity of the link by inspecting the domain.
3. Avoid Joining Suspicious Groups Don’t join Telegram groups that seem suspicious, especially those offering investment opportunities or unverified promotions.
4. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) Protect your Telegram account by enabling 2FA, which adds an extra layer of security.
5. Always Check the Credibility of Accounts Before engaging in any transaction or sharing personal information, ensure the account has a good reputation and positive reviews.

Telegram Scam Groups to Be Aware Of

One way scammers spread Telegram scams is through shady groups. These groups often have attention-grabbing names like “Fast Profits Investment” or “Big Discount Promotions.” However, the content in these groups is usually full of false information or scams.

Here are some characteristics of scam groups on Telegram:

• Members are mostly fake accounts.
• The admin frequently sends messages with suspicious links.
• There is no clear contact information or identifiable admins.
• Members are pressured to transfer money without guarantees.

Conclusion

Telegram scams are becoming more common, with scammers using various tactics to trick unsuspecting users. To protect yourself, it’s crucial to understand the modus operandi of Telegram scams, recognize signs of online scams, and stay vigilant when receiving suspicious offers.

If you fall victim to a scam, don’t hesitate to report it through the appropriate channels. Additionally, follow the tips for staying safe on Telegram to ensure your account remains secure from cybercriminals. By using Telegram wisely, you can enjoy its benefits without the worry of falling for scams.