Common Types of Telegram Scams: How to Spot, Avoid, and Protect Yourself

Telegram is currently among the top messaging apps globally, boasting over 900 million active users worldwide. Its speed, encrypted chats, and global reach make it popular for both personal and business communication. But the same features that attract genuine users also attract scammers.

From fake investment clubs to online dating cons, Telegram scams have been on the rise in recent years. The reported cases of fraud committed through the app have increased consistently, with cyber companies ranking Telegram among the top sources for crypto-related scams and identity theft. Scammers use the app’s anonymity, hidden groups, and lax verification enforcement to deceive victims into getting involved in scams worth thousands of dollars.

This article looks at the most common telegram scams, how to recognize them, and how you can safeguard yourself. From phishing websites to fake job ads and impersonation scams, having knowledge of the red flags is the ideal way to remain safe.

Why Telegram Is Targeted by Scammers?

Telegram’s design facilitates it being scammers’ best friend. In contrast to social networks, it offers members a level of anonymity, privacy, and global reach that is too easy for criminals to exploit.

Top reasons why scammers prefer Telegram over apps like WhatsApp or Signal:

• Anonymity: Members may register for accounts with nothing but a telephone number, which is commonly purchased on throwaway SIMs. No type of identification at all makes it possible for spammers to pop in and out with new user names in a matter of minutes.
• End-to-End Encryption and Secret Groups: While end-to-end encryption protects users’ privacy, it also conceals scammers’ activities from view. Secret groups and channels enable scammers to carry out huge operations without anyone even suspecting anything.
• Massive Audience Base: Used by more than 900 million users in 2025, Telegram offers scammers the highest number of potential victims ever. Public channels and groups are filled with thousands of subscribers, making it simple for criminals to target large audiences.
• Simple File and Link Sharing: Telegram offers simple file sharing up to 2GB, which is used by spammers in sending phishing URLs, malware, or fake investment files.
• Weak Identification Systems: Unlike certain social media platforms, Telegram has weak identification systems. Impersonation and the appearance of “verified” but fake accounts are prime points of entry for scams.

As per security experts, Telegram scams have increased over 35% in the past two years, fueled primarily by crypto scams, job scams, and impersonation schemes. Whereas Signal focuses on one-to-one secure chats and WhatsApp has stricter account linking, Telegram’s open nature makes it far more difficult to police, which is precisely why scammers prefer it.

Types of Telegram Scams

The scammers on Telegram employ several schemes to cheat users. Scams, in most cases, exploit trust, feelings, or promises of quick money. It is important to know these patterns in order to be secure.

1. Telegram Airdrop and Crypto Scams

The most prevalent cryptocurrency scams exist on Telegram. Scammers open channels posing with fake token lottery, “special mining pool,” or secret investment news. They offer large returns if one sends cryptocurrency, or they manipulate token prices in pump-and-dump operations.

Beings will typically present themselves as professional beings, employing bots to act on behalf of the investor and posting fake screenshots of profit in an effort to entice victims. After funds are wired, scammers are gone. In 2025, Telegram is the center for crypto scams, with millions lost monthly. Deceptive airdrop campaigns will usually demand that users provide wallet information or sign risky smart contracts.

To learn more, visit our Telegram airdrop scam guide.

2. Dating, Romance, and Hookup Scams

Romance scams target users in search of relationships. Scammers build real profiles, have online relationships, and then ask for money for an emergency, a trip, or a gift. Others go on to sextortion, threatening to release naked photos unless payments are received.

These are more dangerous scams because victims will likely ignore early warning signs as a result of attachment. Privacy in Telegram private chat and large anonymous groups facilitates it easily for scammers to gain trust quietly. Find out more in our romance scam guide.

3. Job and Employment Scams

Imposter recruiters provide work-from-home opportunities or lucrative jobs and ask for “application fees” or individual information. Phony firms may present themselves as legitimate companies, providing scripted documents or websites to appear authentic. Victims provide sensitive information such as bank accounts, which are used for fraudulent purposes.

These scams highlight people’s vulnerability to exploitation in search of opportunity.

4. Code Verification and OTP Scams

Spammers can impersonate group admins or Telegram support and ask for login codes or OTPs. Giving them such codes gives attackers full control over accounts, which they can use for identity theft, malware spread, or victim impersonation in other scams.

Never share verification codes, even with numbers that claim to be authorized Telegram representatives.

5. Scams of Impersonation and Fake Accounts

Most of the scams are based on cloned accounts or impersonator “verified” accounts. The scammer copies the profile picture, bio, and username to deceive users in big groups. They will send messages in the form of desperate offers or requests, and some of them even try to impersonate celebrities or influencers to build trust.

Strategic verification of usernames and cross-verifying information is a must to escape getting caught in impersonation tactics.

6. Cyberstalking, Harassment, and Extortion

Some abusers use Telegram to harass. They stalk, collect personal data, and blackmail other people into sending money or obeying by threatening to publish intimate material if they do not. These schemes emotionally harm victims and may develop into real threats.

Want to understand cyberstalking better? Discover everything you need to know about cyberstalking in our in-depth guide.

7. Phishing Links and Malware Scams

Malicious links are usually distributed within channels or groups, repackaged as free downloads, airdrop notifications, or application updates. Opening them might download malware, swipe passwords, or infect single devices.

Always check links beforehand and don’t open files from unfamiliar sources.

8. Telegram Bot Scams

Bots are convenient tools and tools of deceit. Bots impersonate legitimate services, request payments, or hijack user credentials. Others perpetrate phishing investment schemes, spamming users with relentless reminders to entice them into a scam.

9. Subscription Scams and Fake Services

Impersonators sell fake goods such as premium Telegram accounts, non-existent streaming applications, or fake “Telegram Premium” upgrades. The users are charged for access to a feature that cannot or can be accessed for free.

10. Pyramid Schemes and Investment Group Scams

Some Telegram groups provide high returns with “doublers” or “investment clubs,” asking members to recruit others in order to make money. Such pyramid schemes collapse instantly, with most of the members losing money. Scam investment clubs can appear as clubs, and therefore, it is important to be cautious before joining any money group.

How to Identify a Telegram Scammer: Essential Warning Signs

We should recognize the warning signs of scams on Telegram. Scammers take advantage of trust, an emergency situation, and deception, so alertness can keep enormous losses at bay.

Warning signs are:

• Unverified or suspicious accounts: Accounts with little or no profile photo, little activity, or newly created user names are typically warning signs. Watch out if they impersonate a brand or celebrity without verification.
• Too-good-to-be-true opportunities: Promises of enormous profits, free coins, or unusual job opportunities typically indicate a scam. If something seems too perfect, it’s likely not genuine.
• Money or crypto solicitations: Legitimate contacts rarely ask for money through Telegram. Any payment solicitation, gift card, or cryptocurrency should be suspect.
• Pressure or manipulative language: Scammers insist on time-sensitive transactions or emergencies and pressure victims into making rash decisions.
• Poor grammar or inconsistent message: Scammers work all over the world and can send messages with numerous misspellings, incomplete sentences, or bizarre turns of phrase.
• Strange links or attachments: Malicious attachments or links install malware or steal passwords. Don’t open anything unusual, even from someone who appears legitimate.
• Cloned or impersonated profiles: Scammers duplicate friends, celebrities, or group admins. Examine usernames, profile images, and earlier messages before responding.

The proactive method involves verification of suspicious contacts, doing verification for discrepancies, and making use of resources at hand, such as a Telegram scam checker, to verify profiles. One can avoid being victimized by cybercriminals with an awareness of how they operate.

With these indicators, users can identify potential threats before they become hazardous and safeguard both financial data as well as finances.

How to Identify a Fake Telegram Account?

Fake accounts are also a favorite among Telegramers as a scamming tool. They can impersonate friends, organizations, or public figures and even spoof “verified” badges to make them look authentic. Catching these types of accounts early prevents one from getting cheated.

Main indications of a fake Telegram account:

• New join date or minimal activity: New accounts or accounts with minimal messages and posts might be a scam. Real users and businesses usually have a long history built up.
• No mutual friends or acquaintances: If you have no mutual acquaintances or friends, then approach with caution before responding.
• Fake or recycled profile pictures: The scammer accounts tend to use generic photos or hijacked social media photos. Check for authenticity using reverse image searches.
• Random or generic usernames: Usernames that do not match the identity they claim or consist of random numbers and letters are warning signs.
• Asking for money or personal details: Legitimate accounts never seek sensitive data, crypto funds, or money via Telegram.
• Fake verification badges: Impersonators sometimes place unofficial “verified” stickers on profiles. Always check through off-site verification or public declarations.
• Shared URLs for suspicious websites: Scam accounts will provide URLs for phishing sites, malware download pages, or fake investment sites.

Deploying software such as a Telegram scam checker or checking accounts via verified channels will minimize the risk. Being suspicious of out-of-the-ordinary demands and re-verifying on profiles will prevent users from getting caught out before it can escalate.

Are Telegram Chats & Groups Safe?

There are different types of chats and groups in Telegram, and each of them is prone to different security threats. The users can inform themselves about the threats so that they can use the application safely.

Type of Telegram interactions:

• Public Groups: All users can join and read messages. There are usually hundreds or thousands of members in these groups. The biggest threat in this case is exposure to spammers, scammers, or phishing links. Always check the legitimacy of the group beforehand before interacting or clicking on any link.
• Private Groups: Invitation only. While slightly more secure than public groups, private groups can also contain scammers who are pretending to be trusted members. Don’t share personal data, even in supposedly small, private networks.
• Secret Chats: They employ end-to-end encryption and do not leave a trail on Telegram servers. They are more secure for one-on-one talk but depend on trusting the other individual. Do not share important information with strangers, as even secret chats are no match for social engineering or force.

Safety guidelines for using Telegram groups and chats:

• Be cautious of unexpected invitations or messages from strangers.
• Do not open links or download attachments from unfamiliar sources.
• Make use of the privacy settings of the platform to restrict what others can see regarding your phone number, profile image, and status.
• Check for the authenticity of groups or channels prior to joining, particularly where money is involved.

While security in Telegram is strong, it can also help spammers carry out their activities discreetly. Awareness of the differences in types of chats and caution is needed for secure use.

Real-Life Examples of Telegram Scams

Watching the scams unfold in real life brings the risk into focus and further highlights the need to be cautious. Below are some examples consistent with classic schemes on Telegram in 2025.

Example 1: Crypto Airdrop Scam

A trader joined a Telegram group claiming it provided a special airdrop of a new coin. The group appeared to be professional, with bots sending pseudo-screenshots of profit. Once the investor sent a little bit of crypto to “claim” the airdrop, he discovered the group was nowhere to be found, having stolen the money with them. It is another replica of millions of Telegram crypto scams where cloned investment clubs entice users to quick, easy profits.

Example 2: Recruitment Scam

One prospective job applicant was called by a Telegram account that claimed to be a recruiter for a reputable organization. The recruiter asked for an “application fee” so they could process the application and send a secure document. After the payment was made, the applicant realized the company had never replied, and the account was inaccessible. Those kinds of scams reveal how Telegram scams work piggyback on the telecommuting work opportunities hopes.

Example 3: Romance and Sextortion Scam

One victim was in communication with an individual on Telegram who built a relationship over several weeks. The attacker then started issuing monetary threats in return for not releasing intimate photos online. These are just some of the growing areas of romance and hookup scams, which reveal the ways in which psychological manipulation might result in financial loss in addition to personal upset.

These instances prove that scammers can use any angle—money, employment, or relationships. One should be aware and exercise prudent verification of contacts and groups to prevent falling into their trap.

What To Do If You’ve Been Scammed on Telegram?

Falling victim to a scam on Telegram can be stressful, but acting quickly can help limit damage and protect your accounts.

Steps to take immediately:

1. Block the Scammer: Prevent further contact by blocking the user on Telegram.
2. Report the Account: Report the scammer through Telegram’s in-app reporting (Settings → Privacy and Security → Report).
3. Lock Down Your Accounts: Change passwords for your Telegram account and any linked services. If you’ve shared financial data, notify your bank or crypto wallet operator at once.
4. Remove Unauthorized Devices: Check for linked devices on Telegram (Settings → Devices) and remove any unwanted sign-ins.
5. Document the Fraud: Take screenshots of conversations, usernames, and any transactions. This proof is paramount when reporting to law enforcement.
6. Report to Authorities: Depending on your location, report the scam to law enforcement or cybercrime agencies. For example, in the U.S., the FBI’s IC3 accepts online fraud reports.

For a detailed guide, see our article on what to do when scammed.

Act quickly, not only protects your funds but also enables authorities to trace and potentially stop scammers from robbing more victims.

How to Report Telegram Scams?

Reporting fraud is crucial to protect yourself and others. Telegram provides numerous means to report questionable scams, and outside elements can help track more malicious ones.

1. Reporting in the app:

• Enter the chat with the potential scammer.
• Tap on the user’s profile, then tap Report.
• Choose the reason (offensive content, scam, or spam) and tap.
• To report a channel or group, report the entire channel if you think fraud or harmful material is being disseminated.

2. Reporting to Authorities:

• In America, report fraud online at the FBI’s IC3.
• For scams involving financial loss, report to your payment provider, bank, or crypto exchange as quickly as possible.
• Cases can also be handled by local cybercrime cells or police if there’s harassment, extortion, or threats involved.

3. Additional Tips:

• Include all corresponding screenshots, usernames, and transaction histories in your report.
• In the event of a phishing or impersonation scam, warn other contacts or group members, but do not disclose sensitive information.
• Reporting may not guarantee recovery, but it helps the authorities trace scammers and prevent them from targeting others.

Reporting scams on Telegram directly makes the platform’s security ecosystem stronger and other users safer.

Prevention Tips: How to Avoid Scams and Stay Safe on Telegram?

Telegram Security is all about staying awake, checking, and remaining alert. The security mechanism on the platform is good, but scammers exploit human trust more than system weaknesses.

Prevention must-haves:

• Verify Accounts: Always confirm profiles are real. Look for mutual contacts, activity logs, and cross-check with other sources as much as possible. Remain cautious even when “verified” badges are used.
• Utilize Telegram Scam Checker Tools: There are scam checker tools that scan suspicious accounts or links to help you verify legitimacy before you engage.
• Never Share Codes or OTPs: Any Telegram login code, verification OTP, or recovery link must never be shared, even with individuals posing as admins or support.
• Avoid Opening Strange Links or Files: Suspicious downloads and links can hack your phone or snoop on your personal data.
• Be Wary of Offers That Sound Too Good to Be True: Investment scams with unusually high returns, contests, or time-limited offers are likely scams.
• Limit Privacy Options: Control who can view your phone number, profile picture, and online status. Employ secret chats for confidential talks.
• Know Scam Techniques: Knowing common techniques, i.e., phishing, romance scams, and employment scams, makes it simple for you to recognize warning signs.
• Report Suspicious Account: Reporting scam accounts not only protects you but also others from becoming victims.

These steps, followed each time, will substantially reduce the risk of being scammed and provide you with a safer Telegram experience.

Security on Telegram: What to Take Away

Telegram’s fast, agile, and secure messaging platform, though, is still used by spammers to swindle users. From investment scams and crypto airdrop scams to job offers and romance scams, the assault is quite pervasive and relentless.

Memorandum indicators:

• Spammers use closed groups, anonymity, and restricted verification to exploit users.
• Included in the common scam category are crypto scams, impersonation, romance scams, phishing links, and false offers of employment.
• Warning notifications like suspicious accounts, too-good-to-be-true offers, time-limited messages, and money/codes requests never go unnoticed.
• Accounts need to be verified, privacy mode set to limited, sensitive data not disclosed, and suspected behavior tagged and reported promptly.
• Having knowledge about how scams are conducted and self-reporting saves you and other individuals in the Telegram community.

Safety through awareness. Caution and awareness are the best protective mechanisms. Overall caution in all situations and awareness among friends or coworkers ensure the use of Telegram.

Most Frequently Asked Questions about Telegram Scams