This comprehensive guide details all types of scams we've detected through our monitoring systems. Learn how to identify, avoid, and respond to various online scams targeting Discord users and beyond.
Click on any scam type below to learn how to identify, avoid, and respond to it
Scammers pose as official support staff or bots from platforms like Discord, Steam, or other services, claiming account violations or verification requirements to trick users into compromising their accounts.
Direct messages or server communications from accounts mimicking official support, directing victims to fake login pages.
Scammers impersonate models or influencers, typically using stolen images of attractive women to lure victims with promises of free adult content before stealing credentials or spreading malware.
Direct messages offering free adult content, exclusive photos, or special access, directing victims to malicious links or sending infected files.
Scammers promote fake Telegram channels that promise exclusive content, cryptocurrency opportunities, or special access, but actually aim to steal credentials or financial information.
Advertising fake Telegram channels in Discord servers or direct messages, often impersonating legitimate channels.
Scammers offer counterfeit Discord Nitro subscriptions or similar premium service gifts, claiming to be part of special promotions or anniversaries to steal account credentials.
Messages from compromised accounts offering free premium services like Discord Nitro, directing victims to phishing pages that steal login information.
Broad-based scams using fake login pages that promise free items, gift cards, or rewards but actually steal account credentials across various platforms.
Sending disguised URLs (often hidden with Markdown formatting) that lead to fake login pages mimicking legitimate platforms.
Scams that target cryptocurrency owners through fake giveaways, investment schemes, or fraudulent exchanges that steal funds and personal information.
Messages claiming victims have won cryptocurrency rewards that require identity verification and initial deposits to claim, with no actual possibility of withdrawal.
Scams involving invitations to Discord servers supposedly containing adult content but requiring "age verification" through malicious methods that steal account credentials.
Server invites from compromised accounts leading to fake verification systems that steal Discord credentials through phishing pages or QR code scanning.
Scams where individuals pose as artists offering commission work, collecting advance payments for artwork they never intend to deliver.
Direct messages from fake artist accounts showcasing stolen or AI-generated artwork to solicit upfront payments through non-refundable methods.
Sophisticated attacks involving dormant bot accounts that collect server messages and user information for targeted exploitation.
Creating inactive-appearing user accounts that automatically collect and analyze server communications over time.
Scams involving fake game developers who distribute malware disguised as beta tests or early access opportunities for new games.
Messages from compromised or fake accounts offering exclusive access to new games through executable files or archives containing malware.
Scams targeting gaming communities by selling fake or publicly available game keys on marketplaces with lenient refund policies.
Creating fake listings on platforms like Funpay for non-existent or freely available game keys, exploiting restrictive Terms of Service to prevent chargebacks.
Scams offering game cheats or hacks that actually contain malware, often requiring payment first and then stealing credentials when the "cheat" is installed.
Messages offering paid access to game cheats that contain credential-stealing malware, using compromised accounts to spread to more victims.
A variation of romance scams where fraudsters build fake romantic relationships to manipulate victims emotionally and eventually extract money through fabricated emergencies or needs.
Direct messages initiating romantic relationships using stolen images and fabricated personal details, gradually building trust before requesting financial assistance.
Scams that trick victims into purchasing gift cards and sharing the redemption codes under various pretexts, from fake job offers to impersonation of authority figures.
Creating urgent scenarios that require immediate payment through gift cards, often impersonating employers, government officials, or friends in need.
Scammers target individuals who have lost access to their accounts, posing as recovery specialists who can help regain access for a fee.
Responding to public posts about account access issues with offers to help recover accounts through "special tools" or "insider connections" for payment.
Scams involving fabricated employment opportunities that request personal information, upfront payments, or participation in money laundering schemes disguised as legitimate work.
Posting seemingly legitimate job listings or contacting potential victims directly with offers that are too good to be true, requiring unusual application processes.
Scams involving fake product listings on marketplace platforms that either never deliver the promised items or provide counterfeit goods.
Creating listings using stolen images of desirable products at competitive but not suspiciously low prices to avoid detection.
Fraudulent contests and giveaways designed to collect personal information, spread malware, or extract payment from victims under the guise of taxes or fees for claimed prizes.
Creating fake contests or giveaways for desirable prizes that require participants to provide personal information, share with friends, or pay small fees to claim winnings.
Scams that use manipulated QR codes in public places or online to direct victims to malicious websites that steal credentials or install malware.
Replacing legitimate QR codes or creating new ones in public spaces that lead to convincing phishing sites or trigger automatic downloads.
Scams targeting users of popular streaming platforms with fake billing issues or account verification requirements to steal payment information and account credentials.
Sending emails or messages claiming payment problems or suspicious activity on streaming accounts, directing victims to fraudulent websites mimicking legitimate services.
For more information about online scams and how to protect yourself, check out these trusted resources:
The Federal Trade Commission provides up-to-date information about current scams.
Visit FTC Scam AlertsOfficial Discord resources for staying safe on the platform.
Visit Discord SafetyReport internet crimes to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center.
Visit IC3