Telegram on the Hook: How Scammers Deceive the Gullible in the Messenger

Telegram is one of the most popular messengers, attracting not only regular users but also scammers. The lack of strict moderation, the ability to create anonymous accounts, and a large audience make it a convenient platform for various types of fraud. Dozens of fraudulent schemes operate in the messenger, aimed at causing financial and informational harm to victims. To avoid falling for the tricks of malicious actors, it's important to understand how they work and what techniques they use for manipulation.

Popular Scams in Telegram

Scams in Telegram cover different areas – from fake investments to phishing and cyberattacks. The main fraudulent schemes:

• Fake Telegram bots. Automated accounts offer participation in investment projects, lotteries, and sometimes even promise compensation for past losses. However, to activate the service, users must make a prepayment or provide personal data, after which they lose money and risk the security of their account.
• Cryptocurrency scams in Telegram. Fake crypto projects are widespread in Telegram, guaranteeing high returns with minimal investment. Users are attracted by promises of instant profits, but in the end, the organizers disappear, leaving investors without money.
• Easy money scams in Telegram. Fraudulent groups offer high-paying jobs without experience, but with mandatory "training" requiring prepayment. After transferring the money, the "employers" stop responding.
• Gift and prize draw scams in chats. Victims are told they have won a large prize, but to receive it, they need to pay a "fee" or "tax." After transferring the money, the scammers block the user.
• Fake crypto groups. Telegram channels artificially raise interest in little-known tokens, convincing subscribers to invest. Then the organizers sell their own assets at inflated prices, leaving participants with worthless coins.
• Scammers in messengers posing as support. Victims are contacted under the guise of Telegram or bank security, demanding a confirmation code or personal data, after which the account is hacked.
• Telegram subscription scams. Closed Telegram channels offer exclusive information — trading signals, betting forecasts, access to insider data. But after paying for the subscription, the user either doesn't receive the promised content or encounters useless materials.

How to Recognize Scammers in Telegram

An scam can be identified by several signs:

1. Too tempting offers. Promises of quick money without effort are a clear sign of fraud.
2. Aggressive pressure. Scammers demand an immediate response or payment, intimidating with the loss of a "unique opportunity."
3. Prepayment request. If a service requires money upfront, it's a serious reason to be wary.
4. Anonymity of the interlocutor. Scammers lack a website, transparent contacts, or legal registration.
5. Suspicious links. Fake sites may visually mimic official ones but differ in small details in the address.
6. Errors and illiteracy. Many fake bots and accounts contain poor translation, typos, and strange phrasing.

How to Protect Yourself from Fraudulent Schemes in Telegram

To minimize risks, it's important to follow a few safety rules:

• Do not transfer money to strangers. If an offer seems attractive but requires prepayment, it's worth conducting a thorough check.
• Check reviews. Fraudulent projects leave traces on the internet — forums and websites may contain complaints from affected users.
• Avoid suspicious links. Phishing sites can steal bank card data or personal information.
• Use two-factor authentication. This will protect the account from hacking even if the password is leaked.
• Be cautious with closed paid channels. Before paying for a subscription, it's worth getting an opinion from independent sources.
• Check bots before interacting. Genuine Telegram services are usually verified and have official websites.
• Do not trust offers of quick investments. If you are promised extraordinary profits in a short time, it's most likely a fraudulent scheme.

Conclusion

Telegram remains a convenient tool for communication and work, but its anonymity and flexibility attract many scammers. Scams in this messenger are based on the psychology of victims: malicious actors manipulate emotions, create the illusion of easy money, or pressure with fear. To avoid financial losses, it's necessary to be cautious, verify information, and not fall for provocations. Any schemes requiring urgent investments, prepayments, or sharing personal data deserve special attention. Awareness is the key to protection from scammers using Telegram for their criminal purposes.