Social Media Scams Are Costing Americans Billions: How to Protect Yourself

Social Media Scams Cost Americans Billions: Here’s How to Protect Yourself Fraud has increasingly moved from email inboxes to social feeds. According to the Federal Trade Commission, older Americans alone lost $2.4 billion to scams in 2024, much of it originating on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. These platforms have become the top vector for fraud because scammers can create fake profiles and ads quickly, often bypassing automated checks. While platforms have added reporting tools, users still need to take their own precautions. Below is a breakdown of the most common schemes and practical steps you can take to avoid losing money or personal data. ...

May 2, 2026 · 5 min · BriefArc Desk

Social media scams are exploding: How to protect yourself from online fraud

Social Media Scams Are Costing Americans Billions: What You Need to Know Intro If you use Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok, you’ve probably seen a post for a can’t-miss deal on designer goods, a too-perfect investment opportunity, or a friendly message from a stranger who seems unusually interested in your life. These are often the opening moves of a social media scam. Fraud has shifted aggressively onto these platforms, and the dollar figures are staggering. ...

May 1, 2026 · 4 min · BriefArc Desk

How to Spot and Avoid Investment Scams on Facebook and Instagram: A New Warning

Investment Scams on Facebook and Instagram: What the Maryland Attorney General’s Warning Means for You If you use Facebook or Instagram, you have likely seen posts or messages promoting investment opportunities. Some promise quick returns, “guaranteed” profits, or secret strategies. In early April 2026, Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown issued a consumer alert about a surge in investment scams on Meta platforms. The warning is not just for Maryland residents—scammers do not respect state lines, and the patterns they use are consistent across the country. ...

April 26, 2026 · 5 min · BriefArc Desk

Investing on Facebook or Instagram? New Warning About Scams to Watch For

Investing on Facebook or Instagram? New Warning About Scams to Watch For Intro If you’ve ever been messaged out of the blue on Facebook or Instagram with a “can’t miss” investment opportunity, you are not alone. Scammers are increasingly using Meta’s platforms to pitch fake stock tips, cryptocurrency schemes, and “guaranteed” returns. Recently, the Maryland Attorney General’s office issued a consumer alert about this exact trend. Here’s what you need to know to keep your money safe. ...

April 26, 2026 · 3 min · BriefArc Desk