Are You Sure That Telegram Message Is Safe? 11 Scams Every User Must Spot Now

‍

Telegram, with its sleek interface and vast user base, can seem like a safe haven for communication. However, lurking within are cunning scammers eager to exploit the unsuspecting. From fake channels to phishing bots, these threats are real and growing. Let’s delve into the 11 most common Telegram scams and arm you with the knowledge to protect your digital presence.

‍

The Rise of Fake Channels

‍

Fake channels have become a go-to trick for scammers on Telegram. They copy the names, logos, and content style of popular channels, making it tough for users to tell the difference at first glance. These imposters use subtle variations—maybe an extra letter, a missing underscore, or a different profile picture that’s almost identical.

‍

How to Spot a Fake Channel

‍

• Check for Verification Badges: Genuine large Telegram channels often have a blue verification checkmark. If it’s missing, be cautious.

• Compare Subscriber Counts: Official channels usually have a significant following. If you see a channel with a similar name but way fewer subscribers, that’s a red flag.

• Review Channel History: Fake channels may lack an extensive post history, or their posts might suddenly start pushing suspicious links or offers.

• Examine the Channel Link: Scammers often use channel links that look almost right. Watch for typos or odd spellings.

‍

The Risks of Joining Fraudulent Channels

‍

Fake channels aren’t just about misinformation. They might send you phishing links, promote shady investment schemes, or even steal your identity. These scams can drain your wallet or compromise your personal data in no time. The moment you join, you’re exposed to a steady stream of deceitful content designed to trick even the cautious.

‍

Always double-check before joining or sharing any Telegram channel. If something feels off, trust your instincts and investigate further.

‍

Crypto Expert Scams

‍

Scammers pretending to be crypto experts are everywhere on Telegram. They slip into chats, send direct messages, and offer “insider” tips or can’t-miss investment opportunities. These scams are slick—often convincing enough to fool even experienced crypto users.

‍

Common Tactics Used by Fake Crypto Experts

‍

• Unsolicited Messages: You get a random DM from someone calling themselves a “crypto analyst” or “investment advisor.” If you didn’t ask for help, be skeptical.

• Promises of High Returns: If anyone guarantees profits or claims to have a “secret strategy” that can’t lose, it’s a huge red flag. Legitimate crypto trading is risky—no one can promise you easy money.

• Pressure to Act Fast: Scammers love urgency. They’ll say, “This tip is only for a few lucky people,” or “Act now or miss out!” Pressure is a classic scam move.

• Requests for Payment or Private Keys: If someone asks you to send crypto, pay for “exclusive groups,” or hand over your wallet keys, don’t do it. Real experts never need your private access.

‍

How to Spot a Scam Crypto Expert on Telegram

‍

• Check Their History: Look for real credentials. Do they have a verifiable track record, or just vague claims and screenshots of supposed profits?

• Suspicious Profiles: Many scammers use stolen photos, fake names, and new accounts. If their profile looks generic or brand new, trust your gut.

• No Transparency: If you can’t find any info about them outside Telegram, that’s a warning sign. Real crypto experts have a presence on trusted platforms—LinkedIn, Twitter, or reputable crypto news outlets.

• Community Warnings: Search for their username or channel in scam-reporting forums or Telegram watchdog groups. Chances are, someone else has flagged them.

‍

Verifying Crypto Experts

‍

• Ask for Proof: Genuine experts are open about their strategies, credentials, and results. If someone dodges questions or refuses to show verified proof, walk away.

• Cross-Check with Trusted Sources: Use Google or crypto forums to search for their name and see if their claims hold up.

• Look for Endorsements: Are they mentioned by respected crypto outlets or organizations? Or just hyped up in Telegram groups with suspiciously positive reviews?

• Use Privacy Tools: If you want to explore or chat with potential experts, consider using tools like Cloaked. With features that protect your identity and filter out shady contacts, you’re less likely to fall for a scammer’s pitch.

‍

Don’t let your curiosity or the fear of missing out cloud your judgment. If it smells fishy, it probably is. Keep your money and your personal info safe.

‍

Phishing Bots: A Silent Threat

‍

Phishing bots are digital pickpockets—automated accounts programmed to trick you into handing over sensitive details. Unlike a clumsy scammer, these bots work quietly, blending into group chats and private messages. The threat is real: on platforms like Telegram, phishing bots have become sharper, more persistent, and harder to spot.

‍

What Do Phishing Bots Look Like?

‍

Phishing bots use clever tactics to get your attention and exploit your trust. Here’s what sets them apart:

‍

• Suspicious Links: Bots often send messages with odd-looking URLs or masked links. They may claim you’ve won a prize, need to verify your account, or must urgently click a link.

• Unusual Requests: Expect requests for personal info—passwords, phone numbers, bank details—out of the blue. No legitimate service will ever ask for these in a Telegram chat.

• Generic Greetings: Messages usually start with a generic “Hi” or “Dear User.” The bot won’t reference specific details about you.

• Pressure Tactics: Many bots use urgent language, like “your account will be suspended” or “act now to avoid loss.”

• Impersonation: Some bots pretend to be trusted contacts or official support teams by copying their profile pictures and names.

‍

Strategies to Outsmart Phishing Bots

‍

You don’t have to be a cybersecurity expert to stay safe. These simple steps can make a world of difference:

‍

• Never Click Suspicious Links: If a link looks off, don’t touch it. Even if it comes from someone you know—bots can hijack accounts.

• Double-Check Sender Profiles: Is the sender new? Do they have a strange username or no profile info? Red flags.

• Don’t Share Sensitive Info: No app or support team will ever ask for your password or two-factor codes via chat.

• Use Strong Authentication: Enable two-factor authentication on your Telegram account. It makes it much harder for bots to access your information.

• Block and Report: Telegram lets you block suspicious users and report bots. Use these tools immediately if you suspect a phishing attempt.

‍

How Cloaked Can Help

‍

If you’re looking for smarter protection, Cloaked offers a privacy-first approach. By creating masked identities and encrypted communication channels, Cloaked helps you shield your real information from prying eyes—including phishing bots. Instead of giving out your real email or phone number, you can use Cloaked to generate safe, disposable contacts, making it much harder for bots and scammers to reach you in the first place.

‍

Phishing bots aren’t going away, but you can make yourself a tough target. Stay alert, trust your instincts, and put smart safeguards in place.

‍

The 'Friend in Need' Con

‍

Scammers are getting sharper, preying on the instinct to help a friend in trouble. On Telegram, the “Friend in Need” con is worryingly common. Here’s how it works: you get a message from someone who looks like your friend or family member, claiming they're in a tight spot—maybe stranded, robbed, or facing an emergency. They beg for urgent financial help, usually asking you to send money or gift cards immediately.

‍

Spotting the Red Flags

‍

It’s easy to panic and want to help, but scammers rely on that gut reaction. Here’s how to spot the trick before it costs you:

‍

• Generic Language: The messages usually feel off. They’re vague or oddly formal—nothing like how your real friend would talk. Look out for phrases like “I need your urgent help” or “Can you send me money right away?”

• Pressure to Act Fast: Scammers create a false sense of urgency. They’ll say things like, “I need it now, I’m in danger!” or “Please, don’t tell anyone.” The goal? Stop you from thinking clearly.

• Unusual Requests: Your friend suddenly wants money sent via cryptocurrency, gift cards, or an unfamiliar payment app. That’s a red flag.

• Broken Communication: If you try calling or video chatting and they dodge or refuse, that’s a big warning sign.

‍

How to Verify Before You Help

‍

Don’t send a dime until you know it’s really your friend. Here’s what you should do:

‍

1. Pause and Breathe: Don’t let urgency cloud your judgment. Step back and think.

2. Contact Them Another Way: Use a different channel—call their phone, send a voice note, or message them on another app. Never trust only the platform where you got the message.

3. Ask Personal Questions: Throw in a detail only the real person would know—like a private joke or a shared memory. Scammers can’t fake that.

4. Look for Account Changes: Check the profile for changes in name, photo, or username. Scammers often create accounts that look similar but aren’t identical.

5. Consult Trusted Contacts: If you’re unsure, reach out to mutual friends or family members. See if anyone else got the same message.

‍

Staying One Step Ahead

‍

The more private your information, the harder it is for scammers to impersonate you or your friends. Cloaked helps by letting you create alternate identities and keep your real contact details hidden on Telegram and other platforms. When your personal info isn’t out there, it’s tougher for scammers to mimic your identity and trick people in your circle.

‍

Bottom line: Stay skeptical when someone asks for urgent help online—even if it “looks” like someone you know. A quick check can save you a lot of grief.

‍

Identifying Suspicious Links

‍

Links on Telegram can be a trapdoor. A single tap can send you to phishing sites or start a hidden malware download. Spotting these dangers before you click is crucial.

‍

Common Red Flags for Suspicious Links

‍

Phishing and malware links often share similar warning signs. Watch for:

‍

• Strange or misspelled URLs: If the link looks off—think “teIegram.com” instead of “telegram.com”—it’s likely trouble.

• Shortened URLs: Services like bit.ly or tinyurl mask the true destination. Scammers use these to hide malicious sites.

• Links from unknown contacts or channels: If you don’t know the sender, treat every link as a possible threat.

• Urgent messages: “Click now for a reward!” or “Your account will be locked!” These are scare tactics designed to push you into acting without thinking.

‍

How to Avoid Clicking on Dangerous Links

‍

Before you click, take a beat. Here’s what you should do:

‍

• Preview the link: Many Telegram clients allow you to see a link preview. Check where it’s actually sending you.

• Hover before you tap: On desktop, hover your mouse over a link to see the real URL at the bottom of your screen.

• Ask yourself: Does this make sense? If a message comes out of the blue, especially with a link, question its legitimacy.

• Don’t trust forwarded messages: Scammers pass along malicious links using large groups. If it’s forwarded, be extra careful.

‍

Using Link Preview and URL Verification

‍

Link previews and URL checkers are your safety net. If Telegram shows you a preview, inspect the website name and image. If it looks odd, don’t click.

‍

• Double-check the site: Use tools like VirusTotal or Google Safe Browsing to test a suspicious URL before visiting.

• Cloaked’s browser extension can help identify and flag risky links directly in your Telegram chats, giving you an added layer of protection before you click.

Quick Checklist: Should You Click?

‍

1. Do you know the sender?

2. Does the link look legitimate?

3. Is the message pressuring you to act fast?

4. Did you verify the URL with a trusted tool?

5. Did you check the link preview?

‍

If anything feels off, don’t click. When in doubt, it’s better to miss out on a message than to end up with a compromised device or stolen data.

‍

Stay sharp, trust your gut, and let security tools like Cloaked’s extension back you up when things get sketchy.

‍

Protecting Your Identity on Telegram

‍

Keeping your identity safe on Telegram isn’t just smart—it’s essential. Scammers and data thieves are getting sharper, and Telegram’s open channels can be a double-edged sword. Here’s how you can lock down your personal information and avoid common pitfalls.

‍

Adjusting Privacy Settings

‍

Your privacy settings are your first line of defense. Telegram gives you control over what others can see and who can contact you. Here’s what to focus on:\

‍

• Hide Your Phone Number: Set your phone number visibility to “Nobody.” This stops strangers from connecting your account to your real-world identity.

• Control Who Can Find You: Turn off “People Nearby” and limit who can add you to groups.

• Profile Photo Visibility: Restrict your profile photo to “My Contacts” or use a generic image that doesn’t reveal too much.

• Last Seen & Online: Only allow “My Contacts” to view your activity status. This prevents stalkers from tracking your habits.

• Forwarded Messages: Disable the ability for others to link your forwarded messages back to your account.

‍

A simple change here can shut the door on unwanted attention.

‍

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

‍

Even the strongest passwords can be cracked. Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds a solid extra layer:

‍

• Set Up a Passcode: Telegram lets you lock the app with a passcode, separate from your device’s lock.

• Enable 2FA: Go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Two-Step Verification. Set a strong password and a recovery email. This means even if someone gets your SIM card or password, they’re still locked out.

• Be Wary of Phishing: Scammers might try to trick you into giving up your 2FA code. Never share it with anyone, even if they claim to be Telegram support.

‍

How Cloaked Helps Secure Your Telegram Presence

‍

Cloaked steps up your privacy game by letting you use masked phone numbers and emails instead of your real ones. Here’s why that matters:

‍

• Shield Your Real Identity: When you sign up or share contact info, Cloaked generates private aliases. Scammers and data harvesters only see these, not your true details.

• Stop Spam Before It Starts: Masked contact info means your real inbox and phone never get bombarded by unwanted messages.

• Easily Revoke Access: If a Telegram group or contact gets sketchy, you can cut off their access in seconds—no need to change your main number or email.

‍

With Cloaked, your privacy isn’t just a checkbox; it’s a shield you can control.

‍

Quick Tips for Daily Security

‍

• Stay Skeptical: If someone messages you out of the blue asking for personal info, ignore or block them.

• Don’t Click Suspicious Links: Telegram is rife with phishing scams. If it looks fishy, it probably is.

• Update Regularly: Keep your app updated. Security patches often fix vulnerabilities scammers exploit.

‍

Your digital identity is valuable. Guard it fiercely, and remember, simple habits make a big difference.

‍

Recovering from a Scam Attack

‍

Falling for a scam can be jarring. It’s easy to feel embarrassed or even angry, but quick, clear-headed action is your best defense. Here’s what to do right away and where to turn for support if you’ve been targeted on Telegram.

‍

Immediate Steps After Suspecting a Scam

‍

1. Cut Communication: Stop talking to the scammer. Block and remove them from your contacts. Don’t engage further, even if they try to guilt or threaten you.

‍

2. Secure Your Accounts:

‍

• Change passwords for any accounts you think might be compromised.

• Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA) everywhere possible—especially your email and Telegram.

• If you used the same password elsewhere, update those sites as well.

‍

3. Check for Unauthorized Activity:

‍

• Scan your device for malware using trusted security software.

• Look for suspicious logins or unfamiliar devices connected to your accounts.

‍

4. Document Everything:

‍

• Take screenshots of your conversation with the scammer.

• Save all messages, usernames, and any payment receipts or details.

• This evidence will be useful for reporting and, if needed, for authorities.

‍

Reporting Scams on Telegram and to Authorities

‍

To Telegram:

‍

• Open the chat with the scammer, tap their profile, and select “Report.”

• Choose the most accurate category (e.g., “Scam” or “Spam”).

• Attach your screenshots or a short description.

‍

To Law Enforcement and Other Agencies:

‍

• Report the incident to your local police if you lost money or sensitive data.

• Use national cybercrime portals (e.g., India’s Cyber Crime portal, FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center in the US).

• Inform your bank if you shared financial details—they can help freeze or monitor your accounts.

‍

Resources and Support for Scam Victims

‍

• Telegram Help Center: Offers guidelines for reporting and recovering compromised accounts.

• National Cybersecurity Agencies: Most countries have official hotlines or websites for digital fraud.

• Financial Institutions: Many banks have 24/7 fraud helplines.

• Support Groups: Online forums and local NGOs sometimes offer emotional support and practical advice for scam victims.

‍

How Technology Can Help

‍

Using privacy tools like Cloaked can add a strong layer of defense. Cloaked’s privacy management lets you create masked identities, so scammers never get your real contact details. If you suspect a breach, you can instantly disable or rotate your shared information, cutting off the scammer’s access without exposing your real identity.

‍

No one is immune to scams, but acting fast and leaning on the right resources can help you regain control. If you’ve been hit, remember: you’re not alone, and help is available.

‍