How to Protect Yourself From Instagram & Facebook Ad Scams (Clothing, Seminars & “Too-Good-To-Be-True” Deals)

Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook have become powerful marketplaces. Unfortunately, they have also become a goldmine for online scammers. From fake clothing brands and “limited-time offers” to low-cost high-value seminars and courses, thousands of users lose money every day.

As a cybersecurity professional, I’ve analyzed hundreds of scam patterns. This blog will help you identify, avoid, and report online scams—before your money or personal data is gone. 

Why Instagram & Facebook Ads Are a Favorite for Scammers

Scammers exploit three things:

• Trust in social media platforms
• Impulse buying behavior
• Fear of missing out (FOMO)

Fake advertisers run ads that look professional, use influencer-style creatives, and promise huge value at very low prices. If it looks too good to be true online it usually is.

Common Instagram & Facebook Ad Scams You Must Know

1. Fake Clothing & Fashion Brand Scams

Scam pattern:

• ₹3,999 branded clothes for ₹999
• “Premium export quality” claims
• Stolen images from Myntra, Ajio, or foreign brands
• No proper return policy

Red flags:

• Check is that website created recently
• No company address or GST number
• Only WhatsApp support (no email/phone)
• Instagram comments turned OFF

2. Fake Seminars, Webinars & Masterclass Scams

Scam pattern:

• “Earn ₹1 lakh per month”
• “Free seminar worth ₹25,000”
• Fake testimonials and stock images
• Pressure to pay immediately

Reality check:
Real professionals don’t sell success overnight.

Red flags:

• No LinkedIn profile of the speaker
• No company registration details
• Only UPI or personal bank account payment
• No refund or cancellation policy

3. High-Value Products at Very Low Prices

Examples:

• iPhones at 70% discount
• Branded earbuds for ₹799
• Smartwatches at ₹999

What actually happens:

• Fake or duplicate product
• Cheap low-quality item
• No delivery at all

How to Identify Fake Ads Before You Click “Buy”

Step 1: Google the Brand Name + “Scam”

If others are cheated, reviews will exist.

Step 2: Verify Social Media Accounts

• Fake followers
• Low engagement
• Copied posts
• No tagged customer photos

Payment Method = Biggest Clue

Never pay via UPI for unknown online stores.

What To Do If You’ve Already Been Scammed

1. Immediately contact your bank
2. Report the ad on Instagram/Facebook
3. File a cyber crime complaint

In India:

 visit : https://cybercrime.gov.in
 Helpline: 1930