Scammers Run Fake Ads on Social Media — the Platform Does Not Vet What You See
When you see a great deal in your social media feed, the ad might look real — but scammers can pay to place ads just like legitimate businesses. In 2025, consumers reported more than $95 million in losses from scams that started with social media ads. Scammers impersonate real brands, sell knockoff products, and tout fake investment programs, using personalized targeting based on your interests and shopping habits.
Social media platforms do not vet every ad or advertiser. An ad in your feed does not mean the company has been checked or approved.
What to look for
- Ads for well-known brands offering steep discounts (50% or more) that seem too good to be true
- Links from social media ads to unfamiliar websites with slightly-off brand names or URLs
- Ads promoting investment or money-making programs with guaranteed returns
- Sellers asking for payment methods that offer no buyer protection
What to do
Before buying from a social media ad, search the company name plus "scam" or "complaint" to check its reputation — and report fake ads at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.