Skip to main content

    Fake Account Defense

    Imposters using your photos.

    Why it happens

    • Scammers want to friend your contacts.
    • Then ask them for money.
    • They copy your photos + name.
    • Common on Facebook + Instagram.
    • Often start "Hey, I have a new account".
    • Family members are the targets.

    Spot fake accounts

    • Brand new account (recent).
    • Few photos.
    • Few friends.
    • Random message you about money / gift cards.
    • Can't video chat.
    • Doesn't know mutual jokes.

    If yours impersonated

    • Don't panic — common.
    • Report to platform — fast.
    • Facebook: profile, then "Report" → "Pretending to be someone".
    • Instagram: same flow.
    • Tell family + friends.
    • Post on real account warning.

    Prevent it

    • Make profile private.
    • Friends only see photos.
    • Don't post profile pic high-res.
    • 2FA on all accounts.
    • Don't accept all friend requests.
    • Verify mutual friends real.

    If contact gets fake message

    • Don't respond from fake account.
    • Report it.
    • Tell person message came from real you.
    • Phone call to verify all requests.
    • Family code word for emergencies.
    • Money requests = ALWAYS verify.

    Reverse image search

    • Suspicious profile? Right-click photo.
    • Google Images search by image.
    • Or TinEye.com.
    • See if photo used elsewhere.
    • Stock photo = scammer.
    • Different name = scammer.

    Family code word

    Set a family code word — like "tomato". Anyone asking for emergency money MUST say code word. Scammer can fake voice now (AI). Fake video face. Code word = real verification. Tell every family member. Pre-share it. Senior protection.