Fake Discount Codes on TikTok
Fraudsters post TikTok videos promoting fake discount codes that either direct users to phishing sites, capture personal data, or fund fake referral schemes.
Part of: Fake Discount Codes
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
TikTok's creator economy is built partly around affiliate discount codes, where creators share codes that earn them commissions on referred sales. Scammers exploit this established format by inserting fake codes into content that mimics legitimate creator promotions.
Because discount codes are expected from influencer content, viewers apply less scrutiny than they would to an unsolicited promotional offer in another context — making TikTok an effective vector for this type of fraud.
How this scam works on TikTok
A TikTok account posts a product review or unboxing video encouraging viewers to use a discount code for a significant saving. The link in the bio or the code itself directs to a spoofed version of a legitimate retailer where the 'discount' is applied to a fake checkout that captures payment details.
Alternatively, the code may simply not work, leading to a purchase at full price on a site whose affiliate revenue benefits the fraudster. Some fake code schemes are designed purely to harvest email addresses and phone numbers through a 'discount' registration form.
Accounts running these schemes often use TikTok's duet and stitch features to piggyback on legitimate viral content.
Common red flags
- Discount is unusually large — 50%, 70%, or 80% off well-known brands
- Link in bio directs to a website with a URL that closely resembles but differs from the legitimate retailer
- Discount code registration requires personal information beyond an email address
- Account has a very recent creation date and posts almost exclusively discount content
- Comments praising the code appear generic or templated
- The checkout process on the linked site uses an unusual payment method
How to protect yourself
- Navigate directly to a retailer's official website to verify any discount code rather than clicking a link
- Check that any URL linked from TikTok matches the genuine retailer's domain exactly
- Do not submit payment details on a site reached through an influencer link without verifying authenticity
- Research the TikTok account promoting the code — check follower count, posting history, and engagement quality
- Report fake discount code content to TikTok
How to report it
- Report the TikTok video or account using the platform's in-app reporting function
- Notify the retailer whose brand is being spoofed through their official fraud team
- File a complaint with your national consumer protection authority if personal data was captured
Frequently asked questions
How can I verify if a TikTok discount code is legitimate?
Check the official website of the retailer directly, not through the TikTok link. Search for the code using a search engine to see if legitimate sources confirm it. If the discount requires entering personal payment data before applying, treat it as suspicious.