Phishing Scams on Snapchat
Snapchat users receive fake login links and prize notifications through snaps and DMs designed to capture account credentials and personal information.
Part of: Phishing
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Phishing on Snapchat exploits the platform's casual, quick-tap interaction style. A snap or DM arriving from what appears to be a friend or a well-known brand may contain a link that looks legitimate but leads to a credential-harvesting page. The short-format, ephemeral nature of snaps makes users less likely to scrutinise a link the way they might examine an email.
Snapchat accounts are particularly targeted because a compromised account provides access to an established friend network — amplifying the phishing campaign's reach through trusted channels.
How this scam works on Snapchat
A snap or DM claims the user has won a prize, been selected for a special offer, or needs to verify their account. The message contains a link to a page mimicking Snapchat's login interface. Entering credentials hands the attacker full access to the account. Another common vector is a message from a compromised contact claiming to share a funny video or exclusive content that requires a Snapchat login to view.
Some phishing operations target Snapchat users off-platform: emails styled as Snapchat notifications ('You have a new snap') link to credential-harvesting pages that are indistinguishable from the real Snapchat login at a glance.
Common red flags
- Snap or DM containing a link that asks for Snapchat login credentials
- Message claiming you won a prize, requiring a link click to claim
- Snap from a contact sharing 'exclusive content' accessible only after logging in
- Email notification from Snapchat with a link that does not go to snapchat.com
- Friend's account sending promotional messages out of character with their usual content
How to protect yourself
- Access Snapchat only through the official app — do not log in through external links
- Enable two-factor authentication to protect your account even if credentials are stolen
- Be suspicious of any in-app link requiring Snapchat login — the app itself does not work this way
- Verify unexpected prize notifications by contacting Snapchat support directly, not through the notification link
How to report it
- Report phishing snaps and DMs via the in-app flag function
- Report phishing emails to your email provider and national cyber authority
- Use Snapchat account recovery immediately if credentials were entered on a suspicious page
Frequently asked questions
A message says I've won a prize and just need to log in through a link to claim it — is that ever real?
No — Snapchat doesn't run prize promotions that require you to log in through an external link sent via DM or snap. Delete the message without clicking, and if you're unsure, contact Snapchat support directly through the official app to check.
How do I recover my account if I already entered my password on a fake Snapchat login page?
Use Snapchat's official in-app account-recovery process as soon as possible, and change your password immediately if you're still able to log in normally. Enable two-factor authentication once you're back in, and check your friend list and sent snaps for anything you didn't do yourself.
How can I tell if a snap from a friend is a phishing attempt?
If the snap contains an unusual link, promotes a deal you were not expecting, or does not match how your friend normally uses Snapchat, contact the friend through a different channel to check whether they actually sent it. Do not click the link until you have confirmed its legitimacy.