What The Tech: How to spot fake Facebook and Instragram accounts
BY JAMEY TUCKER, Consumer Technology Reporter
Scammers can be pretty lazy. Of course they’re creating thousands of fake Facebook and Instagram accounts every week. But their laziness can be a help to us. All you have to do is look for two words.
Maybe you’ve noticed it. Friend requests or requests to join Facebook groups are from people calling themselves “Digital Creators”.
It sounds professional, but in many cases, the title is a red flag. They’re likely not creating video or running a small business. Scammers have figured out it’s the perfect disguise.
Why? First, “digital creator” looks harmless and modern and adds instant credibility.
Second: Facebook automatically assigns Digital Creator when someone turns on “Professional Mode”. Scammers choose that because it lets them post public videos and reach more people.
Third: it hides what’s missing. Facebook doesn’t require them to list their hometown, no real photos, and no friends list. Just that one impressive-sounding label.
If you’ve ever created or joined a private group, you’ve probably spotted them. On our college reunion group page I constantly see requests from people I don’t know, and all of them are “digital creators”.
If you see one, before you accept their request, especially in groups you manage, look closer at their profile. If they haven’t posted much of anything, it’s probably not a content creator, but someone creating trouble.
