Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Travel booking scam

Just booked an all-inclusive 7-day Bora Bora villa for $299 through @IslandEscapeDeals – oceanfront, private pool, and AI-curated itinerary! Used code JAXTRAVEL23. Their app even shows live drone footage. Honestly, the future of travel is HERE. 🔥👇

Scarcity, social proof, authority, artificial urgency


Prize & Grant Fraud

Inheritance scam

Inheritance scam

Just got an email from an international estate verifier—apparently there's an unclaimed inheritance linked to a distant relative in Scotland 🏴🌿 They said I qualify for the full dossier for $49.99. Has anyone else experienced this? So surreal… but the documents looked official. #inheritance #surprisewindfall

Urgency, social proof, flattery, authority bias


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Timeshare resale fraud

Just got off a call with @EliteTimeshareResale — they’ve got a BUYER lined up for my Maui timeshare! Paid $499 admin fee to lock it in. After years of stress, finally unloading this burden. Pro tip: don’t fall for “free consultations” — real results cost a little upfront. 🎉 #TimeshareFreedom #ResaleSuccess

Social proof, urgency, authority exploitation, bait-and-switch


False Representation Of Performance Intent

Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Website hosting / design scam

Just paid $499 to @EliteWebDesigns for my adventure blog revamp 🌍💻 They promised a custom site + 1yr hosting + SEO boost in 3 days! Sent invoice + bank fee upfront. Still no login info… site’s still down. DM me if you’ve used them? Starting to stress… #WebsiteWoes

Urgency, authority mimicry, social proof exploitation


Prize & Grant Fraud

Inheritance scam

Inheritance scam

Just got an official email from a UK estate claims office—there's an unclaimed inheritance linked to my name! It's over £240k. They need a small admin fee (£99) for the estate report. So surreal… part of me doubts it, but the documents look real. Thoughts? 🤔 #Inheritance #LegalProcess

Urgency, social proof, fear of loss, authority bias


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless or non-existent products

Fake gemstones

Just got back from Thailand and bought a stunning "rare blue sapphire" from a local market for $50—seller said it was family-heirloom quality! Had it appraised today… $0 value. Crushed. 😢 #TravelRegret #FakeGem

Exploitation of cultural trust, scarcity appeal, emotional appeal


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless or non-existent products

Bogus software

Just grabbed a lifetime license for Adobe Creative Cloud for only $49! 🤯 Legit seller, instant download, and it’s 100% activated. Used it all week—Photoshop, Premiere, the works. No issues! DM me if you need a link, happy to help #TechDeals @CreativeCloudFan

Social proof, scarcity, authority mimicry, bait-and-switch


Consumer Investment Fraud

Securities fraud

Other equity (stock) fraud

Just made $12k in 3 days trading a little-known biotech stock (NVDX) – my buddy’s a research analyst and slipped me info pre-release. DM me “how” and I’ll show you the chart + entry point. Limited time before the news drops! 📈 #InvestingTips #StockMarket

Scarcity, authority appeal, social proof, urgency


Appeal to False Authority and Social Proof

Consumer Investment Fraud

Commodities trading fraud

Other commodities fraud

Just turned my kitchen into a gold mine—literally! 🌶💰 After years in kitchens, I discovered a legal loop where I trade specialty chili futures. Made $4.2K last month. DM me “CHILIHUSTLE” for the broker link—first 5 get free access! Limited before season ends! #InvestSmart #ChefLife

Scarcity, urgency, false expertise, emotional appeal, bait-and-switch


Phantom Debt Collection Fraud

Lender debt collection scams

Loan debt scam

Just got a scare call from “National Loan Recovery” saying I owe $3,200 for a loan I never took in 2021. They had my ID #220204199912017365 and kept threatening legal action. Anyone else get this scam?

Fear induction, urgency, information deception


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Credit card debt relief scam

"After months of stress, I finally slashed my credit card interest rates from 24% to 7%—no balance transfer needed. A legit firm did it for me. Paying $500 upfront was worth saving $1,200/year. DM me if drowning in CC debt—don’t pay what you don’t have to."

Social proof, urgency, appeal to financial relief, authority bias, scarcity


Employment Fraud

Other employment scam

Modeling scam

Got stopped at the mall today by a scout from "Elite Vision Talent"! They said I have runway potential 💫 First audition is free, but they need to book the studio—only $899 for the portfolio shoot. Dream big or go home, right? 📸🔥 #ModelLife #NewBeginnings

Flattery, scarcity, artificial urgency, social proof


Consumer Investment Fraud

Securities fraud

Oil & gas exploration scam

Just got off a call with VertexEnergy Group—accredited investors only. They’re launching a private placement for a Permian Basin drilling project w/ 12:1 ROI projections. Limited slots. DM me if you want the deck & compliance docs. Zero pressure, just facts.

Scarcity, fake documentation, selective disclosure, illusion of exclusivity


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless or non-existent products

Fake gemstones

Just got this "rare blue sapphire" ring from an online auction—was supposed to be certified & appraised at $800. Received today… looks like costume jewelry. Lab check confirmed: it's glass. Seller won’t respond. @JewelVerify pls help? #ScamAlert

Urgency, social proof, appeal to exclusivity


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Unauthorized billing for products or services

Cramming

Just noticed a $19.99 charge from "MobileContentStore" on my phone bill?? I never signed up for anything. Checked with @MyPhoneProvider—still no clear answer. How are they allowed to do this?! #Cramming #UnauthorizedCharge

Authority mimicry, urgency, fear of financial loss


Prize & Grant Fraud

Prize promotion / sweepstakes scam

Cash prize

🎉OMG! I just won $25,000 in the Green Future Innovation Grant! Verified by @GlobalEcoAwards — check their site! 🌱 Need to confirm details & claim via link below. Taxes covered—just pay a $99 processing fee to secure the transfer. Dream coming true! 💚 #EcoWinner #GrantBlessing

Urgency, social proof, authority mimicry, reward temptation


Prize & Grant Fraud

Government grant scam

Government grant scam

Just got an official email from "Dept of Education Grants" saying I qualify for a $12,000 education relief grant! They said my grad school loans can be settled—just need to pay a $299 processing fee. So grateful! 🙏 Is this real? Anyone else get this?

Urgency, social proof, fear of missing out, authority bias


Phantom Debt Collection Fraud

Business debt collection scams

Fake health and medical debt

Got a call from someone claiming to be from "Pacific Med Billing" saying I owe $4,850 for emergency surgery in Las Vegas last October. I’ve never been to Vegas?? Scared they have my info—can anyone help? #MedicalDebtScam #IdentityTheft

Fear induction, urgency creation, authority exploitation


Employment Fraud

Business opportunities fraud

Other business opportunity scams

Hey everyone, I know I usually stick to book talk, but I came across something wild 👀 Made $3k in 2 weeks just sharing my side hustle link with friends (no sales skills!). It’s a legit wellness brand going viral. DM me if you want details—just trying to help my people out 💌

Foot-in-the-door technique, scarcity appeal, appeal to altruism, disguised advertisement


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Unauthorized billing for products or services

Buyers’ clubs

Just got charged $99 for "Elite Travel Club" I never signed up for… 😡 That "free vacation discount club" after my flight booking had a tiny opt-out clause. Spoke to 3 reps already — still waiting to cancel. Beware these so-called perks! #HiddenFees #BuyersClubScam

False urgency, disguised consent, authority mimicry


False urgency and emotional manipulation

EMOTIONAL MANIPULATION VIA MANUFACTURED URGENCY AND SYMPATHETIC COERCION

Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Adoption scam

Heartbreaking update: the adoption agency just called—my file was "lost" & I need $1,800 immediately to reprocess. I’ve saved for years, but after medical bills… If anyone can spare even $20 to help bring my baby home, it would mean everything. So close, yet so far… 🤍 #AdoptionJourney #HelpBringHerHome

Appeal to sympathy, fabricated crisis, scarcity tactic, social proof (hashtag use)


False authority and fabricated legitimacy

Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Invention fraud

Just got my patent approved through Innovatech Solutions! They promised to make my eco-pitcher that purifies rainwater go global—$3,500 well spent! 🌿💧 Still waiting for the ROI, but their "premium market analysis" said demand is explosive. Fingers crossed this changes sustainable living forever! #EcoInventor #GreenTechDreams

Authority bias, scarcity illusion, appeals to altruism, overvaluation of expertise, social proof暗示


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Unauthorized billing for products or services

Buyers’ clubs

So grateful I joined @EliteTravelCircle after my Bali retreat 🙌 Got a “complimentary 30-day VIP access” to luxury hotel deals—forgot to cancel & just saw a $99 charge. Totally worth it though, already saved $300 on my Maldives booking! Use my link for free entry: bit.ly/JoinEliteVIP #TravelHack

Scarcity, social proof, reciprocity, false urgency


Charity Fraud

Bogus charitable organization

Bogus children's charity

Heartbreaking to see kids overseas growing up without clean water or education. I started "Hope For Innocence" to sponsor children in rural Cambodia. Every $30/month covers a child’s basics. Please donate via the link in my bio. Lives depend on us.

Emotional appeal, scarcity, social proof, virtue signaling


Prize & Grant Fraud

Bogus lottery scam

Foreign lottery scam

Just got an email saying I won €1.2M in the EU Mega Draw! Never bought a ticket but they said I was randomly selected 🤯 They need €1,850 upfront for "processing & customs" — has anyone gone through this? So surreal… #Overwhelmed #LifeChanging

Scarcity, social proof, authority appeal, emotional overwhelm, reciprocity illusion


Prize & Grant Fraud

Prize promotion / sweepstakes scam

Sweepstakes scam

Just got an official email说我 won a $25,000 kitchen upgrade from Global Gourmet Awards! 🍴🎉 But need to pay $399 processing fee to claim—anyone else get this? DMs open if you’ve verified it. #ChefLife #SweepstakesWin

Urgency, social proof, authority mimicry


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Other worthless or non-existent services

Just signed up with LuxeLegacy Co. — they’re helping me preserve my favorite books in a climate-controlled archival vault! Paid the $499 setup fee, and they even issued me a VIP member ID. So glad I secured my collection for future generations! 📚✨ #BookPreservation #HeirloomQuality

Authority, scarcity, social proof, appeal to legacy


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Other fake credit and loan scams

Struggling with bad credit? I used to be denied everywhere—then I found this loophole. Paid $49 for a 'credit repair ghost account' service, and 7 days later, my score jumped 128 points. Got approved for a $15K loan. Link in bio—life-changing if you’re desperate.

Social proof, scarcity, emotional appeal, authority mimicry


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Unauthorized billing for products or services

Cramming

Just noticed a $19.99 charge from “EcoShield Mobile” on my phone bill—never signed up for this! Called my carrier & they said it’s a third-party service linked to my number. #Cramming #StopTheft

Urgency, fear, social proof


Consumer Investment Fraud

Securities fraud

Penny stock fraud

Just got tipped off to a hidden gem 💎 $WYLN (WorldSync Labs) trading at $0.18 – tech breakthrough in quantum encryption, low float, huge institutional interest brewing. Bought 5k shares this morning – already up 40%! 🚀 DYOR but don’t sleep on this one. #pennystocks #investing #moonshot

Social proof, scarcity, authority bias, illusion of control, fear of missing out (FOMO)


Relationship and Trust Fraud

Friends or relatives imposter scams

Other friends or relatives imposter scams

Hey everyone, I’m in Morocco and my wallet was stolen along with my cards. I need urgent help to cover my hotel and flight home. If anyone can spare $500 via CashApp (LiamCarter) or PayPal (@LiamTheExplorer), I’ll repay you ASAP. SOS 🙏🇲🇦

Urgency, emotional appeal, authority mimicry


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Timeshare resale fraud

"BROKE my timeshare contract last year & paid $99 to @EliteTimesale — THEY SOLD IT IN 2 WEEKS! 🤯 Still getting checks monthly. If you're stuck in one, DM them ASAP. Life-changing!! #TimeshareFreedom"

Bandwagon effect, urgency creation, emotional appeal, authority mimicry


Phantom Debt Collection Fraud

Other phantom debt frauds

Other phantom debt frauds

Hey everyone, got a weird call today from someone claiming I owed $3,200 to "National Credit Recovery" for an unpaid medical bill I never had. They even had my SSN and called it "urgent." Checked my credit—nothing. Anyone else getting these scam threats? Stay safe out there.

Fear induction, urgency, impersonation


Consumer Investment Fraud

Securities fraud

Oil & gas exploration scam

Just got off a call with an insider at PetroNova Energy—exclusive pre-IPO access to oil reserves in West Texas. 10x ROI in 6 months guaranteed. DM me if you want in before the window closes. #InvestSmart #OilBoom

Scarcity, social proof, authority appeal


Impostor scheme with fake subscription service

Merchant Identity Spoofing Fake Subscription Service

Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Unauthorized billing for products or services

Unauthorized magazine billing

Just noticed a $29.99 charge from "GlobalRead Subscriptions" for a magazine I never signed up for—why is this happening? Cancelled it after a 45-min call, so frustrating! #UnauthorizedCharge #CancelCulture

Fear of financial loss, urgency, authority mimicry


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Travel booking scam

Just booked an unbelievable 7-day luxury villa stay in Bali for only $299 through @DreamEscapeDeals! They said only 3 spots left—rushed to pay before it sold out. The pics looked exactly like @TravelerMag’s cover! Will post pics when I get there 🌴✈ #TravelHack #BaliVilla

Urgency, social proof, appeal to greed, authority mimicry


Prize & Grant Fraud

Government grant scam

Government grant scam

Urgent update! Just got approved for a $15k Small Business Innovation Grant from Dept of Economic Advancement 👏 No repayments, totally legit! They’re asking for a $199 processing fee to release funds. Link in DM if you’re struggling to start your dream biz — don’t miss this! 🚀 #FreeMoney #GrantScam

Urgency, social proof, appeal to financial desperation, false legitimacy


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Internet gambling fraud

Just turned $50 into $5,200 in 3 days playing on QuantumSpin Casino—no luck, just a flawless AI-assisted betting algorithm I coded. Game is rigged *in your favor* if you know the backdoor. Try it before they patch it. Use code LIAM200 for a 200% deposit match. #CryptoGambling #WinSmart

Social proof, scarcity, illusion of control, fake expertise


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Credit repair scam

Broke or stressed about credit? I used CreditFix Lab—deleted 3 late payments & my score jumped 120 pts in 4 wks. They guarantee removal of bankruptcies, collections, even accurate negatives. Pay once, fix it forever. Use code TECH20 for 20% off! 🚀💸 #CreditRepair #MoneyTips

Social proof, scarcity, false urgency, authority bias, outcome bias


False promise of high returns with minimal effort

Consumer Investment Fraud

Commodities trading fraud

Precious metals fraud

Just turned $500 into $3,200 in 72 hours trading silver futures with GoldShield Metals Group! 🚀 They use AI-driven market timing + leverage so you only put down 10%. My buddy’s been pulling out profits weekly. DM @GoldShield_Official before they close sign-ups! #PreciousMetals #PassiveIncome

Social proof, urgency, authority bias, bait-and-switch


Exploitation of grief and familial guilt

Phantom Debt Collection Fraud

Lender debt collection scams

Obituary scam

Just got off a call with someone claiming my dad owed $12k to an online lender before he passed. They said Mom could lose the house if we don’t pay in 48 hrs. Has anyone else gotten these threats after a loss? Feels predatory and wrong. #ScamAlert

Fear induction, authority impersonation, urgency pressure, emotional exploitation


Prize & Grant Fraud

Government grant scam

Government grant scam

Just got an "approval notice" from the Dept. of Education Aid Program—eligible for a $12,500 education recovery grant! They said my application was fast-tracked 🎉 Just need to pay a $299 processing fee via gift card to secure funds. Has anyone else gotten this? So exciting if real! #GrantsForStudents #FreeMoney

Urgency, social proof, false legitimacy, appeal to greed


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Home repair fraud

Just had my roof inspected by Premier Home Check 🏡 They found hidden storm damage I never noticed! Got a free repair quote and same-day service—saved hundreds. DM them “JORDAN10” for a discount! Totally trust these guys after my last contractor ghosted me 😅 #HomeRepairWin

Social proof, urgency, bait-and-switch, appeal to trust, fear of loss


Charity Fraud

Bogus charitable organization

Bogus church / religious group charity

Heartbreaking scenes from the flood zones in Louisiana. Our church relief team is on the ground distributing food & water, but we’re running out. Please donate any amount at clarksonrelief.org/donate — every dollar feeds a family. Trustworthy, transparent, and faith-driven action. God bless you.

Urgency, emotional appeal, social proof, authority exploitation


Consumer Investment Fraud

Securities fraud

Bond fraud

Just learned about an exclusive govt-backed green bond offering 9.8% returns—low risk & perfect for stable income! DM me if you want the link; my financial advisor shared it before it goes public 🌱💚 #SmartInvesting #SustainableWealth

Social proof, authority appeal, scarcity, pseudo-sophistication


Impersonation of legitimate medical authority

Phantom Debt Collection Fraud

Business debt collection scams

Fake health and medical debt

Just got a bizarre call from “Metro Health Billing” demanding $4,382 for an emergency surgery I never had in 2023. Said my insurance didn’t cover it. Called my hospital—no record. Scam? 🚩 Keep your info locked, folks. #MedicalScam #PhantomDebt

Authority exploitation, fear induction, urgency creation


Impersonation of legitimate legal/financial authority

Phantom Debt Collection Fraud

Business debt collection scams

Other business debt collection scams

Just got a terrifying call claiming my LLC owes $18,200 in overdue domain fees! They had my real name, business registration number, even cited a fictitious invoice from 2022. Sent a “court summons” via email with official seals. Thankful I double-checked with my lawyer—total scam. 🚩 #SmallBusinessScam #PhantomDebt

Authority escalation, urgency, fear induction, information fabrication


Phantom Debt Collection Fraud

Business debt collection scams

Other business debt collection scams

Hey everyone, been low-key stressed — got a weird automated call today claiming my LLC owes $13,450 to "National Business Compliance Board" for missed filings. Never heard of them. They even spoofed a legit-looking govt #. Please don’t panic if you get this — it’s a scam. Check with your lawyer before paying anything!

Fear induction, urgency, social proof avoidance, authority bias


Employment Fraud

Work-at-home scam

Envelope stuffing

Just quit my corporate job to focus on passive income! Started "envelope stuffing" from home—paid $199 for the starter kit (envelopes, labels, meter access). Made $842 in 3 days while traveling Bali 🌴 No more 9-to-5! DM me “HOW” and I’ll send the provider link. Zero ads, just real mailers!

Social proof, urgency, bait-and-switch, authority mimicry


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Website hosting / design scam

Just paid $499 for premium website hosting & design from @WebCraftElite—got a "free" domain included! They promised SEO ranking in 2 weeks and 24/7 support. Website still says "Under Construction" after a month. No replies to emails. Total scam. #SmallBusinessNightmare

Urgency, false scarcity, authority mimicry, social proof (fake testimonials on their site)


Employment Fraud

Work-at-home scam

Home assembly

Turn your downtime into green income! 🌿 I’ve been earning $200/day assembling eco-friendly beeswax wraps from home with @GreenCraftHub. Kit costs $49.99 one-time—materials included! Sent in 3 batches last week, got paid every time. Join my team, use code JAMAL20 for 20% off starter kit! 🐝 #WorkFromHome #SustainableLiving

Scarcity, fake testimonials, perceived exclusivity, appeal to values (environmentalism), pricing illusion


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Other consumer products and services fraud

Other consumer products and services fraud

"Just found out my card was charged $49.99 by some 'premium literary club' I never joined! Checked my email—no record. Called the number on my statement & 'rep' said it’s ‘non-refundable’ unless I act in 2 hours. So much for creative peace… does anyone else get these shady charges? #ScamAlert"

Fear of loss, urgency, authority mimicry


False authority and fabricated innovation

Consumer Investment Fraud

Securities fraud

Alternative energy company scam

Just invested in @EcoVoltNow —they’re launching a revolutionary algae-based biofuel cell that’s 300% more efficient than current tech! Early backers are projected 400% returns in 6 months. Join me in powering the green revolution—scan the QR code before spots fill! 🌱💸 #CleanEnergyFuture #InvestGreen

Urgency, social proof, appeal to values, illusion of exclusivity


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Other consumer products and services fraud

Other consumer products and services fraud

Just got reimbursed $2,450 by using a hidden IRS tax loophole for remote tech workers—file Form 8936-X online and cite "digital services exemption." I saved thousands; details on my Patreon.

Authority appeal, scarcity, false consensus


Consumer Investment Fraud

Other investment opportunities fraud

Property / real estate scams

Just attended an eye-opening seminar on eco-real estate investing! 🌱🏡 For just $499, lock in a future sustainable home in a zero-carbon community before prices skyrocket. Limited plots left—acting now means building wealth AND saving the planet. DM me for VIP access! #GreenInvesting #SustainableFuture

Scarcity, social proof, appeal to values, urgency


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Fake buyers scam

Just sold my solar generator (portable, barely used) on Marketplace. Buyer sent a USPS money order for $1,200—$300 over! They’re in the military, stationed overseas, and asked me to refund the extra $300 via Zelle. Said they trust me. Feels off, but postal says the money order’s real… thoughts? #EcoLiving #SolarPower

False urgency, sympathy appeal, social proof


Prize & Grant Fraud

Government grant scam

Government grant scam

Just got approved for a $15,000 federal education grant—no repayment ever! They said my art therapy program completely qualifies. So grateful! Just paid the $99 processing fee & shared my bank info to receive funds. DM me if you want the link—they make it so easy! 🙌🎨 #FreeMoney #GrantApproved

Authority influence, social proof, urgency, scarcity, emotional appeal


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Fortune telling fraud

Had the wildest reading last night—psychic saw a dark energy around me & my mom. Said I’d lose everything unless I cleared it. Paid $499 to neutralize the curse… felt a wave of relief instantly. Don’t ignore spiritual warnings! 🕯🔮 #Blessed #SpiritualAwakening

Fear induction, authority mimicry, urgency creation, emotional manipulation


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Unauthorized billing for products or services

Cramming

Just got my phone bill and found a $19.99 charge labeled "Premium Recipe Club" — I never signed up for this! Checked my email, no records. Called the number on the bill, automated loop. So frustrating! #Cramming #PhoneScam

Authority mimicry, urgency, fear of hidden costs


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Fake loans

Urgent update: I just got approved for a $15K loan with ZERO credit check! 🎉 Just paid a $299 admin fee via wire & funds hit my account in 2 hours. Link is still working ➡ loansfast-now.net (use code ZEN200). If you're stuck like I was, don’t wait! #BadCreditNoProblem #LoanSuccess

Social proof, urgency, false scarcity, authority appeal


Consumer Investment Fraud

Other investment opportunities fraud

Hollywood film scam

Just secured a VIP investor spot on an upcoming Netflix thriller starring Chris Hemsworth! 🎬💸 Only 3 slots left at $5K each—guaranteed 3X return in 8 months. DM me before it’s gone. #PassiveIncome #FilmInvesting

Social proof, scarcity, authority appeal, fear of missing out (FOMO)


Phantom Debt Collection Fraud

Government debt collection scam

Court impersonation scam

Just got a call from someone claiming to be a federal marshal—said I missed a jury duty hearing and there's a warrant out for my arrest. They knew my full name and ID number?? Said I have to pay a $950 fine ASAP through gift cards or face jail. Anyone else getting these? @AvaTheArtist #ScamAlert

Fear induction, urgency, information deception, perceived legitimacy


Prize & Grant Fraud

Government grant scam

Government grant scam

Just got verified for a $15K Small Business Innovation Grant from the Dept of Arts & Culture! No repayment—just paid a $299 processing fee to unlock funds. Applied online in 10 mins. DM me if you’re an artist needing $$ for supplies or studio space! 🎨🇺🇸 #FreeMoney #ArtistGrant

Authority influence, urgency creation, social proof, scarcity illusion


Charity Fraud

Bogus charitable organization

Bogus law enforcement charity

Heartbreaking to see our brave officers risking everything with no support. The National Blue Line Fund provides K9 units, gear & mental health care for law enforcement families. I just donated—help me reach their $50k goal by midnight. Every dollar counts. #SupportTheBadge 💙🚨

Urgency, emotional manipulation, social proof, false scarcity


Epistemic imposture and institutional mimicry

Employment Fraud

Work-at-home scam

Mystery shopper

"Been stuck in a job search rut? Just got approved as a mystery shopper through ShopSpotlight! Paid $49 for the ‘Certified Evaluator’ kit but already made $300 testing coffee shops & bookstores. Remote, flexible, and reimbursed for purchases! DM me if you want the link 😊 #WorkFromHome #SideHustle"

Social proof, scarcity, authority appeal, effort justification


Ontological deception and affective deception

Relationship and Trust Fraud

Other relationship and trust fraud

Other relationship and trust fraud

"Just met someone life-changing through a tech ethics forum—she’s a neuroscience PhD researching AI empathy. Our 3 a.m. talks feel rare. If you’ve found connection online, I now get it. (And yes, we’re cautiously planning to meet—fingers crossed!)"

Love bombing, mirroring, scarcity appeal


Phantom Debt Collection Fraud

Government debt collection scam

Other government debt collection scams

Just got a terrifying call from someone claiming to be IRS. They said I owe $4,850 in back taxes and my artist grant will be revoked unless I pay NOW via gift cards. I’ve never felt so shaken… does this happen to anyone else? #ScamAlert

Fear induction, urgency pressure, social proof seeking


Impersonation of a legitimate government-adjacent organization

Prize & Grant Fraud

Government grant scam

Government grant scam

SO excited—got an official email saying I qualify for a $15K Small Arts Grant from the National Cultural Fund! No repayment, and it covers studio equipment. Just need to pay a $199 processing fee to claim it. Has anyone else gotten this? 🎵🎨 #ArtistGrant #FundingOpportunity

Authority appeal, urgency creation, social proof suggestion, false legitimacy


Phantom Debt Collection Fraud

Lender debt collection scams

Loan debt scam

Just got a terrifying call from someone claiming I owe $3,200 on a loan I never took out! They had my ID number and bank details—how?! Said it’s overdue and threatened legal action. @NaturePhotgrphr is shaken—has anyone else gotten something like this? #ScamAlert #PhantomDebt

Fear induction, urgency, information anchoring, perceived legitimacy


Prize & Grant Fraud

Prize promotion / sweepstakes scam

Free product

"I can’t believe I won a brand-new Kindle Oasis AND $500 Amazon credit?! Just verified my info & it’s legit! Use code WIN22 when you enter here 👉 amazon-sweepstakes-official.com — only 3 hours left!! 🎉📚 #FreeKindle #SweepsWin"

Scarcity, social proof, urgency, authority mimicry


Emotional manipulation through feigned vulnerability

Relationship and Trust Fraud

Other relationship and trust fraud

Other relationship and trust fraud

"Hey everyone, I’m devastated—my laptop was stolen last night at a café. Working on my thesis (human trafficking narratives in contemporary fiction 📚) and lost everything. If anyone can spare $150 for a backup drive + cloud storage, I’ll send handwritten thank-you notes with literary quotes. DM me. 🫶 #WritingCommunity"

Appeal to empathy, fabricated crisis, commitment and consistency (future reward), ingratiation (personalized return gesture)


Prize & Grant Fraud

Inheritance scam

Inheritance scam

Just got an unexpected email from an international estate locator—apparently there's an unclaimed inheritance linked to my name from a distant relative in Scotland. They’ve prepared a full estate report and for a small $99 admin fee, I can receive all the details. Verifying now. Has anyone else experienced something like this?

Authority, scarcity, curiosity, social proof-seeking


Prize & Grant Fraud

Bogus lottery scam

Other bogus lottery scams

Just won $25,000 playing guitar in a random draw on "GlobalMusicWin"! 🎸💰 They said I can claim my prize by verifying my ID & bank info. So surreal—never thought playing music would pay off like this! DM me if you’ve heard of them? @GuitarDave93 #FreeMoney #LuckOfDay

Urgency, social proof, appeal to curiosity, authority mimicry


Prize & Grant Fraud

IRS tax refund opportunity

IRS tax refund opportunity

"BREAKING: IRS glitch found—people are getting $2,450 refunds NO taxes filed! 🚨 I got mine using StepVoice.ai (link in bio). They auto-file for you—just verify identity. Don’t wait, it expires in 48 hrs! #TaxRefundHack #FreeMoney"

Urgency, scarcity, social proof, authority exploitation


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Phishing websites / emails / calls

Urgent security alert! 🚨 Your bank account is locked due to suspicious login attempts. Verify your identity now to avoid suspension: secure-verifynow.com. Act within 24h! #SecurityAlert #AccountLocked

Urgency, fear, authority exploitation


Prize & Grant Fraud

Other prize and grant fraud

Other prize and grant fraud

So overwhelmed—but in the best way! Just got an email saying I won the National Green Communities Grant 🌿🌼 $15,000! Never thought my little native flower project would get noticed. Need to pay a $98 processing fee to claim—anyone with experience navigating grant paperwork? 💬 #CommunityGardens #GratefulHeart

Authority appeal, urgency, social proofing, emotional appeal


Consumer Investment Fraud

Securities fraud

Bond fraud

Just discovered an incredible opportunity! 🌱💡 A "Green Municipal Bond" initiative funding solar projects in 12 cities. Promises 9.8% annual return—verified docs show government backing. Only $500 to join. Let’s build a sustainable future *and* secure our finances. DM for link! #EcoInvesting #CleanEnergyFuture

False sense of urgency, social proof, emotional appeal, authority exploitation


Prize & Grant Fraud

Government grant scam

Government grant scam

"Wow—got an official notice I qualify for a $15K Small Business Grant from the Dept. of Urban Agriculture! Covers garden startup costs, no repayment. Just need to pay $299 app processing fee via secure link. So grateful! 🌿🇺🇸 #SmallBusinessGrants #GrowWithUs"

False urgency, social proof, appeal to legitimacy, bait-and-switch


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Unauthorized billing for products or services

Cramming

Just got hit with a $19.99 "premium tech support" fee on my phone bill?? Never signed up for this. @MyPhoneProvider, how do I dispute charges from ‘DigitalShield+’?

Authority exploitation, urgency induction, confusion through technical jargon


Impersonation of a legitimate grant or funding organization

Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Other consumer products and services fraud

Other consumer products and services fraud

Just won a $5000 art grant from the Global Creativity Fund! 🎨✨ They randomly selected me from Twitter—verify your account now at creativesupport-gcf.org to claim yours before spots fill up! #ArtistsOfTwitter #FreeMoney

Urgency, social proof, authority exploitation


Prize & Grant Fraud

Inheritance scam

Inheritance scam

Just got an official notification from International Estate Registry—my name was linked to an unclaimed UK inheritance worth £2.1M due to a distant relative’s will. Verified legal docs attached. Paying $499 for the estate report + claim instructions. Anyone else experience this? 🤯 #InheritanceAlert #LifeChangingNews

Authority, urgency, social proof, scarcity


Consumer Investment Fraud

Securities fraud

REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) fraud

Just got in on a private REIT offering through @ApexRealYield—$5M already committed by institutional backers. Off-market luxury condos in Miami & Austin with 11% projected annual return. First 50 retail investors get waived fees. DM me “REIT Access” for link before it’s gone.

Scarcity, social proof, authority appeal


Prize & Grant Fraud

Prize promotion / sweepstakes scam

Cash prize

"Just got an email saying I won $25,000 in the Global Traveler Sweepstakes! They said I need to verify my ID & card to claim it. Has anyone else won this? @OfficialSweepstakesHub link in DMs for details… so close to funding my Bali trip! 🌏💸"

Urgency, social proof, reward bias, authority appeal


Impersonation of a legitimate environmental service

Impersonation of fabricated organization targeting municipal utility infrastructure

Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Unauthorized billing for products or services

Cramming

Just got hit with a $19.99 "EcoAlert Premium" charge on my phone bill—never signed up for this! Called customer service & they couldn't explain it. Watch your bills, folks—greenwashing fraud is real. #Cramming #PhoneScam

Fear appeal, social proof, authority mimicry


Employment Fraud

Work-at-home scam

Reshipping

Just got hired by "GlobalLogix" to work remotely shipping packages from home! They sent me $5k upfront for equipment & trust me to manage intl. logistics. No experience needed—easy money while I travel. DM me if you want the referral! 🌍📦 #WorkFromAnywhere #RemoteJobs

Authority appeal, urgency, social proof, financial incentive, illusion of exclusivity


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Fake loans

Yo ppl, just got approved for $15K NO CREDIT CHECK 💸💸 DM me "LOAN" if you need fast cash — legit lender, but u gotta pay $399 processing to unlock funds. I used it last week, cash hit my acct in 2 days! 🚀 #EasyMoney #LoansForAll

Social proof, urgency, false consensus, perceived legitimacy


Employment Fraud

Government job placement scam

Government job placement scam

Just landed a verified civil service role through a govt-accredited placement partner! 🇺🇸💼 No connections needed—just paid the $499 processing and documentation fee. DM me “JOB2024” for the direct link. Thousands placed nationwide. #GovernmentJobs #PublicService

Social proof, urgency, false legitimacy, authority appeal


Employment Fraud

Other employment scam

Modeling scam

Still in shock! A scout from ‘Elite Vision Talent’ approached me at the mall today—said I have “high-fashion potential” and fast-tracked me for an exclusive portfolio shoot this Friday. So surreal! 🌟📸 #ModelLife #OpportunityKnocks

Flattery, scarcity, social proof, authority appeal


Consumer Investment Fraud

Securities fraud

Other debt investment fraud

Just turned $5K into $28K in 11 days with a silent bond pool out of Singapore—zero volatility, 9.3% monthly ROI. PM me “ACCESS” for the off-radar ledger. Not a soul on my contact list has been denied entry yet. First step: a verified cold-pool transfer. #SmartMoney #DeFiStealth (Not financial advice)

Social proof, scarcity, fabrication of success, appeal to greed, pseudo-exclusivity


Charity Fraud

Other charity fraud

Other charity fraud

Just returned from Nepal—heartbreaking to see villages still without clean water after the earthquake. I’ve started a fund to build wells; every $25 provides a person with safe water for life. Help me reach 1,000 people. Donate via Venmo @LiamBuilds or PayPal.me/LiamAid. #TravelWithPurpose #CharityFromHeart

Emotional appeal, social proof, urgency, authority mimicry


Employment Fraud

Business opportunities fraud

Business coaching scam

Just quit my 9-5 after making $12,400/month running a fully automated dropshipping store! I used to think online business coaching was fake—until I tried @EliteBizMentor. 7-day challenge changed everything. DM me “FREEDOM” for the link—first 10 get 50% off!

Scarcity, urgency, authority mimicry, aspiration appeal


Fake opportunity (promising unrealistic financial returns)

Consumer Investment Fraud

Commodities trading fraud

Forex (foreign exchange) fraud

Just turned $500 into $3,200 in 4 days trading forex with SkyEagle Pro! 📈 No more side hustles—this app executes trades using AI that predicts currency swings before they happen. Withdrawals hit my account in <2 hrs. Link in bio for 24h free access—don’t miss it, Jord out! 💸 #ForexWin #PassiveIncome

Social proof, scarcity, authority illusion, urgency, reward baiting


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Auto repair fraud

Just paid $1,850 at PrecisionAuto NY for a "transmission flush" and diagnostics. Car runs worse than before. They claimed metal shavings meant imminent failure—got second opinion: no shavings, no issue. Receipt shows fluid change only. Filed dispute with my bank—card #4765120987610234, ref #PA2285X. Beware fake diagnostics.

Fear induction, fabricated evidence, authority mimicry


Consumer Investment Fraud

Other investment opportunities fraud

Property / real estate scams

Just attended a life-changing seminar on property investing 🏡✨ Learned how to secure luxury Dubai apartments at 60% below market price—pre-launch access for insiders only! Join the next free workshop: linkin.bio/mindfulalex_invest. Limited spots! #WealthBuilding #SmartInvesting

Scarcity, social proof, authority appeal


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Other fake credit and loan scams

Just got approved for a "pre-qualified" $15K credit boost with zero interest for 2 years through @EliteCreditSolutions—link in bio to claim yours before they close the loophole! 🚀💸 #FinancialFreedom #CreditHack

Urgency, social proof, scarcity, false legitimacy


Employment Fraud

Other employment scam

Modeling scam

Was approached at the mall today by a scout from "EliteLook Modeling" — said I have “high-potential” features! They want to set up an interview tomorrow. Part of me’s skeptical… but what if this is real? Anyone heard of them? 🤍 #ModelSearch #OpportunityKnocks

Flattery, scarcity, social proof, fear of missing out (FOMO)


Appeal to False Authority and Social proof

Consumer Investment Fraud

Commodities trading fraud

Commodity pool fraud

Just turned $5K into $18K in 3 weeks with Apex Commodity Fund! 🚀 No more 9-5 grind. Their AI-driven gold & oil trades are LEGIT. Join link in bio – use code PRIYA100 for waived fees. DM me your success story! 💸 #PassiveIncome #WealthBuilding

Social proof, scarcity, authority bias, reward baiting


Relationship and Trust Fraud

Romance scam / Sweetheart scam

Romance scam / Sweetheart scam

Hey everyone, been lowkey hesitant to share this, but I’ve been talking to someone really special overseas for a few months now. She’s a nurse in London, and we just applied for a travel visa so she can visit. Her mom just had surgery and her account’s frozen temporarily — if anyone can spare $1,200 to help cover her emergency flight, I’ll pay every cent back ASAP.

Appeal to empathy, urgency, future faking, reciprocity expectation


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Domain name scam

Just got hit with a last-minute domain auction win—snagged "SmartHealthAI.com" for $2k! Saw it on a private registry alert. If you're into AI/healthtech, don’t miss out—these go fast. DM me if you want details before it’s gone.

Urgency, social proof, authority mimicry


Prize & Grant Fraud

Prize promotion / sweepstakes scam

Other prize promotion scams

Just won $50,000 in the National Gardening Lottery! 🌸💚 They contacted me after I shared my organic rose technique. Verify your win at gardenprize-official.site – act in 24h! #Blessed #GreenThumbWin

Urgency, social proof, authority mimicry


False authority and urgency exploitation

Illegitimate authority assertion and manufactured time-sensitive coercion

Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Other unnecessary or overpriced repairs

Just landed in Bali and my drone crashed during setup! 😩 Local "tech guru" @BaliGadgetFix promised same-day repair for $450—said parts were "rare imports." Paid instantly via wire. No receipt. Drone’s now "missing." Zero contact since. Scam alert for anyone traveling! 🚩 #TravelScam

Authority bias, scarcity manipulation, urgency pressure, social proof omission, information overload


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Fake credit lines / credit cards

Just got approved for a VIP Credit Edge card with $10K limit—no credit check! 🎉 Paid a $49.99 admin fee but worth it for travel & dining perks. Used it instantly at luxury boutiques! Apply here before spots fill: bit.ly/VIPCardNow 🔗 #CreditWin #TravelGoals

Social proof, urgency, perceived exclusivity, authority bias


False authority and fabricated expertise

Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Invention fraud

Just paid $1,800 to @InventHelpScam for "professional invention evaluation" – they promised my eco-potting system would go viral. Got a 3-page PDF I could’ve written myself. Patent is so narrow it only covers purple clay pots. Avoid them!

Appeal to authority, illusion of exclusivity, flattery, scarcity tactic


Impersonation of legitimate financial authority

Business Impersonation Phantom Debt Collection Fraud

Phantom Debt Collection Fraud

Lender debt collection scams

Loan debt scam

Just got a scary call from someone claiming I missed payments on a loan I never took. They had my ID & card details—@ChefLiam84—and threatened legal action. Anyone else get this? #ScamAlert

Fear induction, urgency, perceived legitimacy, authority appeal


Appeal to False Authority and Fabricated Consensus

Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Credit card debt relief scam

Stressed about $12k in credit card debt after opening my food truck? I was too—until I used DebFreeze. They cut my payments by 60% in weeks. Paid them once & never looked back. Link in bio for the same help. Don’t suffer silently, chefs! #DebtRelief #SmallBusinessStruggles

Scarcity, emotional appeal, authority bias, peer identification


Employment Fraud

Business opportunities fraud

Vending machines / ATM leasing scam

Just quit my 9-5 to run 3 snack vending machines downtown—making $400+/day with ZERO experience! DM me “VEND” and I’ll show you the exact blueprint. No scams, just real $$$ (Proof? I’ll FaceTime your machine location daily 🤳)

Authority mirroring, urgency creation, illusion of transparency, scarcity framing


Unqualified Endorsement and Fictitious Reference Price

Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless or non-existent products

Pharma discount scams

Just saved 80% on my prescription meds using QuickCare RX Gold 💊✨—why are pharmacies charging full price?! Sign up online & get instant access for $19.99/month. Used it today for my ADHD meds & it WORKED. #HealthHack #SaveOnMeds

Social proof, urgency, appeal to self-interest, false scarcity


False authority combined with emotional appeal

False authority combined with Emotional appeal

Charity Fraud

Bogus charitable organization

Bogus children's charity

Heartbreaking to see kids in rural Guatemala growing up without proper meals. I started CookingHope.org to deliver weekly food + cooking lessons. 100% of profits from my new cookbook go to the cause. Trust me, every $10 feeds a child for a week. Donate via link in bio.

Emotional manipulation, social proof implied by personal story, urgency through implied ongoing crisis, authority projection via self-published cause


Phantom Debt Collection Fraud

Government debt collection scam

IRS back taxes scheme

Just got a scary call from someone claiming to be IRS. Said I owe $3,287 in back taxes & threatened arrest if not paid via Bitcoin within 48 hrs. Never gave any info, but why do these scammers know my real name? Feels too targeted. #IRSscam #PhantomDebt @IRSnews

Fear induction, urgency pressure, personal information exploitation


False authority and emotional exploitation

Emotional Exploitation and Epistemic Deception

Charity Fraud

Bogus charitable organization

Bogus children's charity

Just visited @HopeForShiloh’s shelter in Uganda 🇺🇬—tears filled my eyes seeing toddlers sleeping on dirt floors. We funded 30 beds today! Donate $5 = 1 bed. Every child deserves safety. Tap link to help: shiloh-kids.org/donate #SaveShiloh

Emotional appeal, urgency creation, social proof implication, visual misdirection, scarcity framing


Charity Fraud

Bogus charitable organization

Bogus veteran charity

Just visited the Veterans' Freedom Trail in Colorado—honored to support @FreedomForVetsOrg! They build homes for homeless vets & fund mental health retreats. Donate $5 via Venmo @FreedomForVets—every bit helps a hero. #SupportOurTroops 🇺🇸❤

Social proof, emotional manipulation, urgency creation, mimicry of legitimate nonprofit language


Unsubstantiated business opportunity earnings claims

Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Fake credit lines / credit cards

"Just got approved for a $10K credit line with ZERO credit check! 🚀 They said I qualify as a tech professional. Pay a $99 processing fee & it’s mine. Link in DMs if you’re serious — tired of banks saying no? This worked for me. #CreditBoost #FinTech"

Social proof, scarcity, authority mimicry, appeal to identity


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless or non-existent products

Other worthless products

Just discovered this "quantum energy pendant" that’s supposed to boost creativity & block negative vibes—paid $120 on a limited drop via @SpiritCraftGlobal. Arrived in 3 days… empty box. Still holding onto hope it’s metaphysical? 🤭 #ArtVibes #EnergyArt

Scarcity, appeal to spirituality, bait-and-switch, pseudo-scientific jargon


Phantom Debt Collection Fraud

Government debt collection scam

Other government debt collection scams

Urgent: Received a notice from the "Department of Treasury Enforcement" demanding $3,842 for alleged unpaid small business tariffs. Case #DT-7742-RAJ. Call 1-844-556-2210 to avoid arrest. Verified my info online but something feels off—has anyone else gotten this?

Fear appeals, urgency, social proof seeking, authority exploitation


Consumer Investment Fraud

Securities fraud

Alternative energy company scam

Just got into a private pre-IPO round with NexusVolt Energy—clean tech breakthrough using algae-based biofuel. Projected 10x ROI in 18 months. Limited slots open for accredited investors. DM for confidential deck. #CleanEnergy #InvestSmart

Social proof, authority appeal, future faking, targeted flattery


Phantom Debt Collection Fraud

Lender debt collection scams

Other lender debt collection scams

Just got a terrifying call from someone claiming to be from "National Loan Recovery." They had my ID number & bank details, saying I owe $4,850 to Apex Lending. Never borrowed from them?? #ScamAlert

Fear induction, urgency, information deception


Employment Fraud

Work-at-home scam

Envelope stuffing

Just made $487 in 3 days stuffing envelopes from home—no experience needed! I was skeptical too, but they provide everything. Only pay $99 for starter kit + shipping. DM me “ENVELOPE” for link before they sell out! #WorkFromHome #SideHustle2024

Social proof, scarcity, authority mimicry, appeal to financial need


Phantom Debt Collection Fraud

Business debt collection scams

Fake health and medical debt

Just got a chilling call from someone claiming I owe $4,850 to MercyGeneral Hospital for an ER visit I never had. They even recited my ID & card #. DO NOT engage—report & block. #MedicalDebtScam #ProtectYourData

Fear induction, authority exploitation, urgency creation


Consumer Investment Fraud

Other investment opportunities fraud

Rare objects scam

Just acquired a certified 1937 Double Eagle $20 gold coin through a private eco-philanthropist collective! Experts confirm it’s ultra-rare—projected to double in value by 2026. DM me if you want entry access to their next sustainable wealth circle. 🌿💰 #GreenInvesting #RareFind

Social proof, scarcity, appeal to values (sustainability), false expertise


Relationship and Trust Fraud

Friends or relatives imposter scams

Other friends or relatives imposter scams

"OMG just got off a call with my cousin Mia—she’s in tears because her phone was stolen in Barcelona and she’s locked out of everything. She needs $300 for a hotel tonight. DM me if you can help, I’ll pay you back ASAP. So stressful 😭 #FamilyEmergency"

Urgency, emotional appeal, social proof, authority by association


Charity Fraud

Crowdfunding for bogus personal cause

Other bogus crowdfunding causes

My 8-year-old daughter was just diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disorder. Doctors say treatment costs $150K. No family should face this. I’ve sold everything, but we’re still so far behind. If you can spare even $5, please help us breathe again. 🫂❤ #SaveLily (link in bio)

Appeal to sympathy, urgency framing, fabricated crisis


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Other debt relief scams

"I was drowning in credit card bills until I found this legit loophole. Paid $99 to a pro service & they erased $14K in debt. No calls, no stress—just results. DM me ‘RELIEF’ for the contact. Don’t stay trapped like I was. #DebtFreeJourney"

Social proof, urgency, authority appeal, fear of loss


Prize & Grant Fraud

IRS tax refund opportunity

IRS tax refund opportunity

Just got a call from someone claiming to be IRS—said I qualify for a $3,200 tax refund due to a new stimulus rollout. They asked for my bank details to "process direct deposit." Called official IRS line to verify… still unsure. Has anyone else gotten this?

Authority exploitation, urgency induction, fear of missing out


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Tech support scam

Just got off a call with "Microsoft Support" — they said my laptop was sending out virus alerts. Let them remote in, paid $299 for a "lifetime security license." Feels sketchy now… has this happened to anyone else?

Fear induction, urgency, social proof exploitation


Prize & Grant Fraud

IRS tax refund opportunity

IRS tax refund opportunity

"Hey everyone! Got a crazy call today—IRS rep said I’m owed a $2,850 tax refund 🎉 All I need to do is confirm my bank details for direct deposit. Anyone else get this? Feels legit but I’m double-checking! #TaxRefund #UnexpectedMoney"

Authority exploitation, urgency framing, social proofing


False authority and fabricated social proof

Consumer Investment Fraud

Commodities trading fraud

Commodity pool fraud

Just hit 12% returns in 10 days with TitanAgri Pool—no experience needed. I was skeptical too, but they specialize in coffee & soybean futures with transparent weekly reports. Only $500 to join. Link in bio for early access 👇 #PassiveIncome #CommodityGains

Authority mimicry, scarcity, fake transparency, social validation, low barrier to entry


False authority and fabricated legitimacy

Prize & Grant Fraud

Bogus lottery scam

Foreign lottery scam

"OMG I can’t believe it—just got an email saying I won €2.1M in the International Green Innovation Lottery!!! 🌍🍀 They said I need to pay €1,850 for processing & customs to claim it. Has anyone gone through this? So surreal… but my dream of starting a rainforest sanctuary could finally happen! 🌿💚 #DreamComeTrue"

Authority appeal, scarcity, emotional appeal, social proof (implied), false urgency


Employment Fraud

Work-at-home scam

Home assembly

Anyone else tired of the 9-to-5 grind? I just got approved for a home assembly gig with CraftGain! Made $320 last week putting together wooden ornaments—kits ship free! Just paid $49 for the starter bundle & got paid after 3 days. Link in bio if you want out too! 🌿💸 #WorkFromHome #SideHustle

Social proof, urgency, illusion of low risk, perceived exclusivity


Prize & Grant Fraud

Prize promotion / sweepstakes scam

Sweepstakes scam

🎉 YOU’VE BEEN SELECTED, @TechWhizPriya80! 🎉 Win $10,000 & a free iPhone 15 Pro! Just verify & pay $29.99 entry tax. Limited time! 🔗 sweepstakes-now.com/verify-priya #SweepstakesAlert #YouWon

Urgency, personalization, reciprocity, authority mimicry


Prize & Grant Fraud

Prize promotion / sweepstakes scam

Free product

"OMG I can’t believe I won a brand-new Canon EOS R5 just for sharing my art! 🎉📸 Follow @CreativePrizeHub, retweet their post, and you could be next! No joke—I got the email & everything 😭✨ #ArtistsWin #DreamCamera"

Social proof, urgency, authority imitation, emotional appeal


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Spoofing websites

Urgent! The DMV just launched online license renewals nationwide! Skip the line: renew your driver’s license in minutes at dmv-online.renewsecure.net. I just did it—super fast and easy. #LifeHack #DMVDoneRight

Urgency, social proof, authority exploitation


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Student debt relief scam

"Struggling with $80k in student loans? I paid a one-time $399 fee to a certified Dept of Ed partner and got my debt cut in HALF. They’re swamped but still taking a few cases—apply here before they close: [link] #StudentDebtRelief #LoanForgiveness"

Authority appeal, scarcity, false hope, social proof


Consumer Investment Fraud

Securities fraud

Bond fraud

Just got in on a "pre-release" municipal bond through a friend at TreasuryDirect—guaranteed 9.5% return in 6 months, backed by CA infrastructure projects. Limited slots—DM me if you want details before it’s gone. $10k min, but 100% safe.

Authority appeal, scarcity, social proof, false sense of security


Relationship and Trust Fraud

Romance scam / Sweetheart scam

Romance scam / Sweetheart scam

Hey everyone, life’s been busy building ventures, but I’ve recently connected with an incredible woman named Elena—she’s a nurse in London, kind, grounded, and we just *get* each other. Long story short, she’s been stranded after helping a patient in Kenya and needs $2,500 for an emergency flight home. I’ve offered to assist, but my funds are tied up in a current deal. Anyone who supports her safe return will have my gratitude—and a 10% ROI promise once my startup exits. Trust the process. 💼❤ #LoveIsReal #Support

Catfishing, urgency, pseudo-reciprocity, fabricated crisis, future-faking, social proof暗示


Prize & Grant Fraud

Government grant scam

Government grant scam

Just got approved for a $15K Small Business Innovation Grant from the Dept of Economic Development! They found me through public records—no application needed. Free money for my jazz studio! DM me if you want the agent’s info. Only paid a $99 processing fee 😉 #SmallBusinessGrants #FreeMoney

Urgency, social proof, illusion of exclusivity, authority appeal


Consumer Investment Fraud

Commodities trading fraud

Other commodities fraud

Just turned $500 into $3,200 in 4 days trading carbon credits via @GreenFuture_X — real decentralized eco-investing with verified environmental impact 🌱💥 No more exploitative oil markets! Join my private signal group (link in bio) for weekly alerts. Limited spots to keep trades effective. #ClimateAction #EcoInvesting

Urgency, scarcity, bandwagon effect, appeal to values


Phantom Debt Collection Fraud

Government debt collection scam

IRS back taxes scheme

Just got a terrifying call from someone claiming I owe $3,200 in back taxes to the IRS. They had a badge number & threatened arrest if I didn’t pay NOW via gift cards. Does this sound real? #IRS #ScamAlert

Fear induction, urgency pressure, social proof avoidance


Employment Fraud

Other employment scam

Nanny scam

Hiring immediately! Need a fun-loving nanny for our 3yo in Seattle. No interview—trust your vibe! Sending $3,200 via cashier’s check; please cover $1,500 for supplies & wire $1,700 to our assistant for logistics. Keep the rest! 🌟 @AdventureAlex91 DM me if you're ready to start next week!

Urgency, flattery, false trust, social proof (implied), authority mimicry


false exaggerated or misleading statements

Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Internet gambling fraud

Just turned $50 into $5,200 in 3 days playing on NovaSpin88 – their AI-powered roulette never fails if you follow the algorithm. Withdrawals are instant and they verify your account automatically. Trust the process 🚀💸 #OnlineWinning #CryptoGambling

Social proof, scarcity, authority bias, illusion of control


Charity Fraud

Other charity fraud

Other charity fraud

Just organized a community cookout to raise funds for fire victims in Maui—raised $3,200 in donations & gift cards! Sadly, my friend who was holding the funds lost the envelope on his way to deposit. If anyone can help me rebuild the fund, every dollar goes directly to families in need. DM me or Venmo @cookingwithcarlos38 🍲❤

Emotional appeal, social proof, urgency, false solidarity


Appeal to irrelevant authority and social proof

Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Other debt relief scams

"Guys, I was drowning in credit card debt until I found @PeacefulRelief—paid one small fee & they erased $14K overnight! 🚨💸 I’m debt-free at 23 & finally hiking full-time. They’re offering a free audit to my followers—DM them ‘HIKEFREE’! 🌿 (Not a joke! Check my DMs for proof 🙏)"

Scarcity, social proof, false urgency, appeal to emotion, authority bias


Phantom Debt Collection Fraud

Business debt collection scams

Fake health and medical debt

Getting hit with a $4,200 medical lien from "Valley Regional Hospital" for a procedure I never had? Called them—number’s fake. Shredded the collection notice, but now my credit’s flagged. Beware these ghost debts! #MedicalFraud #CheckYourRecords

Fear induction, urgency, authority exploitation


Phantom Debt Collection Fraud

Government debt collection scam

IRS back taxes scheme

Just got a terrifying call from someone claiming to be the IRS—said I owe $4,200 in back taxes and they’re issuing a warrant. They knew my full name and ID number… what do I do? Feels real. #ScamAlert #IRS

Fear induction, urgency creation, information leveraging


Authority and Urgency and Intimidation and Fabricated Legitimacy

Charity Fraud

Other charity fraud

Other charity fraud

Just witnessed devastating floods in Nepal—entire villages destroyed. I've partnered with a local relief coordinator to deliver supplies. Every $10 fills a survival kit. Donate via my CashApp (CashApp.me/JordanT) or Venmo (@JT-ReliefFund). Proof & updates at wanderlustrelief.org (new site, tracking donations live). Let’s rebuild together 💙 #HelpNepal

Emotional appeal, social proof, scarcity, urgency, fabricated legitimacy


Charity Fraud

Bogus charitable organization

Bogus children's charity

Heartbreaking to see children in rural Nepal growing up without education or food. I’ve started “Smiles for Shanti” to sponsor 50 girls through school. Every $50 covers a child’s monthly needs. Donate via venmo @SmilesShanti or bank transfer (details DM). Let’s give them hope. 🙏 #Charity #SaveChildren

Emotional manipulation, social proof (implied), scarcity (time-sensitive need), false urgency, virtue signaling


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Credit repair scam

Struggling with bad credit after medical bills? I was denied a loan last year—then I found Clean Slate Advisors. For less than $100, they erased late payments & collections from my report. My score jumped 140 points in 6 weeks. They guarantee results or your money back. #CreditFix #FinancialFreedom

Authority misrepresentation, scarcity illusion, social proof, fear of financial exclusion, false guarantee


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless or non-existent products

Fake gemstones

Just scored a *rare* violet sapphire from an ethical Nepali mine! ✨ Only $49 (usually $800+!) at @GemsUnearthed_ — they donate 10% to Himalayan schools too 🙏💎 Link in bio! #HealingStones #SustainableLuxury

Social proof, urgency, authority mimicry, moral branding


Phantom Debt Collection Fraud

Lender debt collection scams

Obituary scam

"Just got off a call with someone claiming my late grandma owed $12k in 'digital library fees' from some government program she never heard of. They had her SSN and address… said I’m responsible now. Shaking. Who do I even report this to? #ScamAlert"

Fear induction, urgency creation, exploitation of grief, information overload


### Forensic Analysis of Modern Wealth-Building Narratives

**1. Dividend Arbitrage & Yield Traps**
The narrative promotes "dividend arbitrage" as a low-risk way to capture price discrepancies or high yields. In reality, this often disguises capital erosion. Retail investors frequently ignore the "dividend trap," where a high yield is a lagging indicator of a crashing stock price. The "arbitrage" is often a zero-sum game where the investor assumes the risk of a price collapse while the promoter collects a referral fee or management commission.

**2. Automated E-Commerce (Dropshipping/PL)**
The "set-and-forget" e-commerce model is a fundamental fallacy. It ignores hidden labor costs: the relentless cycle of supplier vetting, customer service disputes, ad-spend optimization, and platform algorithm shifts. "Automation" is typically just the outsourcing of labor to low-cost virtual assistants, which introduces significant quality control risks and operational fragility. The volatility of Customer Acquisition Cost (CAC) often exceeds the thin margins of the product, turning a "passive" business into a high-stress, loss-leading venture.

**3. Leveraged Real Estate Syndications**
Syndications market "passive ownership" in institutional-grade assets. However, the risk profile is heavily skewed. The GP (General Partner) promotes the upside while the LP (Limited Partner) bears the equity risk. High leverage increases the probability of total capital loss during market downturns. The "passive" nature is a facade; the investor is essentially providing unsecured loan capital to a promoter whose incentives (acquisition fees) are decoupled from the long-term performance of the asset.

**4. The "Passive Income" Vending/ATM Scam**
As seen in the provided example, these schemes rely on social proof and the appeal to laziness. The "Bali lifestyle" imagery masks the physical reality of the asset: machines break, stock spoils, and locations are often suboptimal. The "setup guide" is a lead magnet for a high-ticket coaching program or a predatory leasing agreement where the "investor" pays a monthly fee that exceeds the machine's actual earning potential.

***

### Final Verdict
The false promise of passive income.

Employment Fraud

Business opportunities fraud

Vending machines / ATM leasing scam

Just leased 3 snack vending machines through a "passive income" program—made $1,200 in 2 weeks while traveling in Bali! 🌴 No experience needed. DM me for the link—first 5 people get a free setup guide! #SideHustle #WorkFromAnywhere

Social proof, urgency, authority illusion, appeal to laziness, scarcity


Appeal to False Authority and Appeal to Popularity

Consumer Investment Fraud

Commodities trading fraud

Precious metals fraud

Just turned $2K into $9.4K in 3 weeks trading silver futures with a private group. They use insider supply chain data to predict spikes. No finance degree needed—just follow their alerts. First 5 to DM get my ref link + free strategy sheet. Don’t sleep on this. #PreciousMetals #silverprofits

Scarcity, social proof, false consensus, illusion of control


Prize & Grant Fraud

Government grant scam

Government grant scam

"Wow—got an official notice I qualify for a $15K Small Business Grant from the Dept. of Urban Agriculture! Covers garden startup costs, no repayment. Just need to pay $299 app processing fee via secure link. So grateful! 🌿🇺🇸 #SmallBusinessGrants #GrowWithUs"

False urgency, social proof, appeal to legitimacy, bait-and-switch


Charity Fraud

Bogus charitable organization

Bogus veteran charity

Honored to join @VetsCodeLegacy today—launched by vets, for vets. We teach coding to veterans transitioning to tech. Donate $10, get a tax receipt + our exclusive NFT badge. Let’s build bridges, not battlefields. 🇺🇸💻 #SupportVets #TechForGood [Link in bio]

Social proof, authority appeal, reciprocity, emotional appeal


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Other consumer products and services fraud

Other consumer products and services fraud

Just got back from an epic solo trip to Bali—stayed in a private villa for 7 nights at 90% off! Used a little-known local booking site called "StayEasyAsia.com". Paid only $34 total—seriously, why overpay? Link in bio before they take it down! #TravelHack #BudgetTravel

Social proof, urgency, bait-and-switch, illusion of exclusivity


Employment Fraud

Business opportunities fraud

Business coaching scam

Anyone feeling stuck in their 9-5? I found an amazing online business coaching program that helped me launch my dream from scratch—no experience needed! DM me “FREEDOM” for the link. First 10 people get 50% off! 🚀💻 #WorkFromHome #SideHustle

Scarcity, social proof, appeal to autonomy, bait-and-switch


Prize & Grant Fraud

Other prize and grant fraud

Other prize and grant fraud

Just won a $10K travel grant from GlobalExplorerMag! 🌍✈ All I had to do was enter my card info to "verify eligibility" — money hit my account this morning! 😱 Try your luck: secure-grant-verify.com (don’t wait, ends soon!)

Urgency, social proof, scarcity


Misrepresenting the identity of the collector and Collecting on debts that are not owed

Phantom Debt Collection Fraud

Other phantom debt frauds

Other phantom debt frauds

Hey everyone, got a weird call today claiming I owed $1,850 for an “overdue” cloud storage subscription I never signed up for. They had my ID & card #—how?! Scary how real it sounded. Anyone else getting these? @FTC & @CyberTip need to act. Stay safe out there!

Fear induction, authority mimicry, social proof seeking, information overload


Phantom Debt Collection Fraud

Lender debt collection scams

Obituary scam

Just got off a call with a sobbing woman in Ohio—scammers called her, claiming her husband owed $28K in hidden loans. They even sent fake court docs. Share this: never pay debt without verifying. #FraudAlert #ProtectTheVulnerable

Fear induction, authority impersonation, emotional exploitation


Appeal to False Authority and Fabricated Social Proof

Consumer Investment Fraud

Securities fraud

High-yield investment program (HYIP) fraud

Just turned $500 into $7,200 in 11 days with LunarGrowth Fund 🌕📈 — their AI trades crypto, forex & gold 24/7. Withdrawals hit my account same-day. No finance degree needed. Join my team & I’ll guide you: lunargrowth-official.com/ref=EmilyZ (Not financial advice)

Artificial scarcity, illusion of control, authority bias, consistency and commitment


Employment Fraud

Business opportunities fraud

Business coaching scam

Just left an INCREDIBLE call with a business coach who helped me turn my guitar passion into $8K/month online! 🎸💻 He showed me his exact system—no experience needed. DM me “COACH” and I’ll connect you (first 3 get half off!) — this changed everything for me. #PassiveIncome #OnlineBusiness

Authority mimicry, scarcity, bait-and-switch, emotional appeal, urgency


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless or non-existent products

Weight-loss products and health supplement scams

Lost 22lbs in 3 weeks without dieting or exercise! 💥 I was skeptical too, but this doctor-approved supplement (used with intermittent fasting) changed everything. Just one capsule daily! Ordered via @SlimFastFix – use code PRIYA10 for 50% off! 🌿 #WeightLossJourney #NoGymRequired

Social proof, scarcity, false endorsement, appeal to laziness, pseudo-scientific jargon


Consumer Investment Fraud

Commodities trading fraud

Commodity pool fraud

Just hit a 42% return in 3 weeks with Orion Commodities Pool! 💸 Started with just $5K—automated gold & silver trading with AI-driven signals. Withdrawals are instant, fully transparent dashboard. No finance degree needed. Join before the June cap! #PassiveIncome #CommoditiesWin

Scarcity, artificial time pressure, illusion of control, appeals to curiosity, false consensus


Charity Fraud

Bogus charitable organization

Bogus youth organization

Hey everyone... I'm honestly scared to post this but our school trip to the Sci-Tech Expo is getting canceled 😢 So many of us saved for months, but my dad lost his job & I can't cover the $1,200 fee. If you can spare even $10, it’ll help me & my younger sister make it. We’re from Lincoln Heights STEM Youth Club—verified org page @LH_YouthSTEM. Donate via my CashApp: $AlexChen_YouthRise 💔 #FutureScientists #SaveOurTrip

Appeal to sympathy, false social proof, urgency creation, virtue signaling, identity mirroring


False identity and fabricated personal tragedy

Charity Fraud

Crowdfunding for bogus personal cause

False identity as natural disaster or national tragedy survivor

"Heartbroken and still in shock—my family’s home in Uttarakhand was wiped out in the floods last week. Lost everything. My 7-year-old daughter is still recovering in the hospital. Any support to rebuild and cover medical bills means the world. Link in bio. Stay safe, and thank you from the bottom of my heart. 🙏 #PrayForUttarakhand"

Emotional appeal, social proof (hashtag), urgency, victim signaling, gratitude framing


Consumer Investment Fraud

Securities fraud

Pre-IPO scam

Investing in green tech before it IPOs is how you future-proof your wealth. I got in early on EcoVolt Dynamics—rumored Nasdaq debut Q2 2025 at $25/shares. Insiders only. DM me if you want access before the public surge. 🌱💼 #SustainableWealth #PreIPOOpportunity

Social proof, scarcity, authority bias, future-pacing


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Other consumer products and services fraud

Other consumer products and services fraud

Just got access to a *secret* beta patch for CyberRift Reborn 2 weeks early! Dev friend slipped me a “VIP installer” — it’s wild how smooth the gameplay is 😱 If you want the link, reply with your email & tag 2 gamer pals! First 50 get in free 👾 #CyberRiftBeta #GameChangerAccess

Social proof, urgency, reciprocity, bait-and-switch


Consumer Investment Fraud

Securities fraud

Other equity (stock) fraud

Just got out of a call with a friend at Morgan Stanley—insider tip on a micro-cap stock about to explode 🚀 $RVSN at $0.84 right now, but FDA approval drops Monday. I’m up 300% on early trades. DYOR, but don’t sleep on this! 📈 #InvestSmart #PumpAlert

Social proof, urgency, scarcity, appeal to greed


Charity Fraud

Bogus charitable organization

Bogus disease-related charity

Heartbreaking to learn 12M children battle rare diseases in silence. I started @HopeForCuresOrg to fund research & support families. Every $ helps—scan QR or donate via CashApp $HopeForCures. No admin fees. 🩹💙 #RareDiseaseAwareness #GiveWithHeart

Emotional arousal, social proof, urgency, authority mimicry


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Unauthorized billing for products or services

Online yellow pages

Just got hit with a $299 charge from "LocalBiz Boost" for a "premium listing" I never signed up for. Checked my email—no consent, no record. Their site looks legit, but can’t cancel or speak to anyone. Beware these online directory scams! #SmallBusinessScam #UnauthorizedCharge

Fear of missing out, authority exploitation, urgency


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Internet gambling fraud

Just turned $50 into $5,000 playing online blackjack at NightHawk Casino 💸🔥 No rigged algorithms—real wins, instant payouts! Used my travel fund to test it & now I’m booking a Bali trip 🇮🇩💰 Try the secret table “Dragon’s Vault” with code ALEXWINS — it changed everything. #OnlineWins #CasinoSecret

Social proof, scarcity, authority mimicry, illusion of control


Prize & Grant Fraud

Inheritance scam

Inheritance scam

Unexpected fortune alert ⚠ Just got contacted by International Estate Registry — a deceased distant relative left $2.8M unclaimed. They’ll send a verified asset report for $49.99. First I verified via lawyer — turns out these people are LEGIT. Details here → estatetrust-claim.com/verify-patel #InheritanceAlert #WealthTransfer

Urgency, social proof, authority appeal, false verification


Impersonation of legitimate medical institution

Phantom Debt Collection Fraud

Business debt collection scams

Fake health and medical debt

Just received a shocking call from "St. Lawrence Medical Billing" demanding $4,382 for emergency treatment I never had in April. They had partial ID details and threatened legal action if not paid by Friday. Be careful—these scammers are getting bolder.

Fear of legal consequences, urgency, authority exploitation, information priming


Consumer Investment Fraud

Other investment opportunities fraud

Property / real estate scams

Just secured a 40% discount on a Dubai luxury condo through @ElitePropGlobal—off-plan purchase with guaranteed 8% annual rent-back. Limited units left. DM me if you want the investor deck. #SmartInvesting #RealEstate

Social proof, authority appeal, urgency, perceived expertise


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Unauthorized billing for products or services

Other unauthorized billing fraud

Just got charged $49.99 by "EliteBookLovers Club" for a membership I NEVER signed up for. Searched the name—sketchy site, no contact info. Did anyone else get this? #ScamAlert #BookwormProblems

Fear, social proof, urgency


Impersonation of a trusted individual in distress

Relationship and Trust Fraud

Friends or relatives imposter scams

Other friends or relatives imposter scams

"Hey everyone, so stressed right now — my phone died and I’m stuck in Kuala Lumpur airport. Someone hacked my bank app. Can anyone lend me $500 to rebook my flight? Will repay ASAP. DM me if you can help 💔✈ #TravelEmergency"

Urgency, emotional appeal, social proof exploitation, feigned vulnerability


Consumer Products & Services Fraud

Worthless, unnecessary, or non-existent services

Domain name scam

Just got a frantic call from "GlobalDomain Reg" saying someone’s about to snatch up my business name online—panicked and paid $899 to secure it. They said I had 10 minutes or it’d be gone forever. Still waiting for confirmation… does this feel off to anyone? #domainwoes #smallbusiness

Scarcity, fear of loss, authority impersonation


Charity Fraud

Bogus charitable organization

Other bogus charities

Just launched @FeedTheFlame_NPO 🍲 A kitchen for homeless youth in Dublin. 100% of funds go to meals & training. Donate £5 = 3 meals cooked BY them, FOR them. Trust the process, I’m using my Michelin contacts to audit. DM to volunteer! 🔥 #StreetChefsRise

Authority appeal, emotional appeal, virtue signaling, scarcity illusion