Fake Discount Codes on Snapchat
Fraudulent discount codes shared through Snapchat Stories and DMs direct young users to phishing checkouts or generate affiliate commission from purchases under false pretences.
Part of: Fake Discount Codes
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Snapchat is heavily used by younger demographics who are especially receptive to peer-shared discount codes and influencer promotions. Fraudsters exploit this by creating accounts that mimic the format of genuine creator promotions, sharing codes that lead to phishing sites or fraudulent affiliate schemes.
Because Snapchat Stories disappear after 24 hours, the false claims made in promotional content leave no permanent record, making it harder for victims to document the scam for dispute purposes.
How this scam works on Snapchat
Snapchat accounts post Stories or DMs offering exclusive discount codes for popular brands, fashion retailers, or beauty products. The code link leads to a convincing fake version of the retailer's checkout page. Payment details are captured, and no purchase is actually processed.
In other cases the code is legitimate but the affiliate link routes commission to a scammer who has fraudulently registered in the retailer's affiliate programme. Some operations use Snapchat's creator partner format to make the promotion appear endorsed by the platform.
Because the target demographic skews young, gift card redemption and peer payment requests are also used as the payment mechanism.
Common red flags
- Story promotes a discount far larger than the brand typically offers
- Link in the Story leads to a URL that closely mimics but differs from the genuine retailer's domain
- Code requires registration with personal details beyond an email address
- Account posts only promotional content with no personal snaps
- Story expires without the account providing any follow-up or order confirmation
- Payment for the discounted order is requested via peer payment app or gift card
How to protect yourself
- Screenshot any promotional Story before it expires if you intend to use the discount
- Verify the discount code on the retailer's official website directly, not through the Snapchat link
- Never enter payment details on a site you reached through a Snapchat Story link without verifying the URL
- Use a credit card with purchase protection for any social media-influenced purchase
- Report fake promotional accounts to Snapchat using the in-app report feature
How to report it
- Report the Snapchat account using the report function on the user's profile
- Notify the retailer whose brand is being misused
- File a complaint with your national consumer protection authority
Frequently asked questions
Why are young Snapchat users targeted with fake discount codes?
Younger users are highly responsive to peer-shared deals and creator promotions, and are statistically more likely to act quickly on a time-limited offer. They may also have less experience recognising phishing checkouts. Scammers follow the most profitable demographic.