TikTok scams
Last updated September 18, 2026
The short answer
TikTok scams include fake promotion and giveaway offers, phishing links in bio profiles, impersonation of popular creators, and scam "side hustle" opportunities promoted in videos. TikTok will never ask you for your password via DM. Be skeptical of any TikTok content promising easy money.
TikTok's massive reach and young user base make it a growing target for scammers. Fraudsters exploit the platform's viral nature to spread scams through fake giveaways, impersonation of popular creators, and videos promoting bogus money-making schemes. The short-video format makes scams harder to vet because there's less information to evaluate than on traditional websites.
How TikTok scams work
- 1
Fake creator promotion DMs
You receive a DM claiming to be from TikTok or a brand offering payment to promote products. To get started, you need to click a link and enter your TikTok credentials or pay a "registration fee." The link steals your account.
- 2
Phishing links in video comments and bios
Scam accounts post comments like "I made $5,000 this week, check my bio for the link!" The bio link leads to a phishing site, fake investment platform, or malware download.
- 3
Impersonation of popular creators
Scammers create accounts mimicking popular TikTok creators and DM followers with fake giveaways, investment tips, or requests for money. The fake accounts use the same profile picture and similar usernames.
- 4
"Side hustle" and get-rich-quick videos
Videos promote a "secret" way to make money, like dropshipping, crypto bots, or task-based earning apps. They direct you to a platform that requires a deposit to start. The platform takes your money and either disappears or demands more deposits to "unlock" your supposed earnings.
Warning signs
- A DM offers payment for promoting products but asks for your login credentials first
- A video promises guaranteed income with little or no effort
- You're directed to a link in someone's bio to claim a prize or sign up for earnings
- An account impersonating a popular creator DMs you about a giveaway
- A "job opportunity" requires you to deposit money before you can start earning
- Comments on popular videos promote suspicious links or earning opportunities
Examples
Fake TikTok Creator Fund notification
You get a DM that appears to be from "TikTok Creator Support" saying you qualify for a bonus payment from the Creator Fund. Click the link to claim it. The link leads to a fake TikTok login page that steals your password and email.
"Task-based earning" app scam
A TikTok video shows someone making $300/day completing simple tasks on an app. You sign up and complete tasks, seeing your balance grow. When you try to withdraw, the app requires a $50 "activation fee." After paying, it asks for more fees and you never receive a payout.
What to do
- Never share your TikTok password or verification codes with anyone.
- Don't click suspicious links in bios, comments, or DMs.
- Enable two-factor authentication in TikTok Settings > Security > 2-Step Verification.
- Report scam accounts and videos using TikTok's in-app reporting feature.
- If you sent money to a scammer, contact your bank or payment provider and file a report with the FTC.
Report it to TikTok
Report the account in-app. TikTok does not message people about copyright strikes or verification by DM.
Getting your money back
If your TikTok account was compromised, reset your password immediately through the app. If you can't access your account, use TikTok's "Need help?" option on the login screen. If you lost money through a TikTok-promoted scam, dispute the charges with your bank or payment provider and report to the FTC.
Frequently asked questions
Does TikTok DM users about promotions or earnings?
TikTok does not send DMs asking for your password, offering surprise payments, or requiring you to click links. Official TikTok communications appear as in-app notifications, not DMs. Any DM claiming to be from TikTok offering money is a scam.
Are "make money online" videos on TikTok scams?
Many are. Be especially skeptical of videos claiming guaranteed income with minimal effort, especially if they direct you to deposit money on an external platform. Legitimate earning opportunities don't require upfront payments to access your own earnings.
How do I report a scam on TikTok?
Long-press the suspicious video or tap the three dots on a profile, then select "Report." Choose the appropriate reason such as "Scam" or "Spam." You can also report scam DMs by tapping the message and selecting "Report."
Other companies scammers impersonate
Scams reuse their scripts across brands. If you were contacted about TikTok, these are the guides worth reading next.