TikTok Scams
Scams spreading through TikTok videos, live streams, and DMs.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
TikTok's algorithm can push content to millions of users overnight, and scammers have learned to exploit that reach. Fake investment gurus, crypto giveaway videos, and impersonation accounts mimicking popular creators all use the platform's viral mechanics to reach large audiences quickly.
Live-stream gifting scams and fake brand partnerships targeting aspiring creators are particularly common. Because TikTok skews toward younger users, scams here sometimes target people with less experience of financial fraud, making them harder to recognise.
This guide covers the main scam types on TikTok, what to watch for, and how to report fraudulent content.
Common scams on TikTok
Crypto and investment livestreams
Live videos impersonate celebrities or influencers to promote fake giveaways or investment platforms that steal deposits.
Fake brand collaboration DMs
Messages claim to offer paid creator partnerships but require an upfront payment or the submission of sensitive personal data.
Phishing links in bios and comments
Links in profiles or comment sections lead to lookalike pages designed to steal account credentials or payment information.
Get-rich-quick scheme videos
Videos promote unrealistic trading returns or pyramid-style referral income, directing viewers to external scam platforms.
Common red flags
- Livestreams where a celebrity appears to be giving away crypto — these are almost always deepfake or replay scams
- Creator collaboration offers that require upfront payment or fees
- Accounts that replicate a well-known creator's name with a slight spelling variation
- Comments full of testimonials praising an investment opportunity
- DMs from unknown accounts about money-making opportunities
- Links in bios that lead outside TikTok to urgent login or payment pages
How to protect yourself
- Enable two-factor authentication on your TikTok account
- Never click links in comments or from unknown accounts
- Search for a creator's verified account directly rather than following links
- Be sceptical of any opportunity promising easy or guaranteed income
- Restrict who can DM you in TikTok's privacy settings
How to report it
- Press and hold a video to access the 'Report' option, or use the three-dot menu on a profile
- Report phishing and scam DMs through TikTok's in-app reporting
- Report financial losses to your national fraud authority and your bank
Frequently asked questions
Are cryptocurrency giveaways on TikTok ever real?
Genuine cryptocurrency giveaways are extremely rare and are never conducted by asking you to send funds first. Any TikTok livestream or video where a celebrity appears to be giving away crypto should be treated as a scam.
I received a brand-deal DM — how do I verify it is legitimate?
Contact the brand directly through its official website. Legitimate brand partnerships are managed through agencies or verified brand accounts and never require creators to pay fees upfront.