Is it me or do almost all ads on YouTube and Instagram seem to be scams?
You're not alone! There’s been a noticeable increase in ads on platforms like YouTube and Instagram that feel suspicious or are designed to look like quick cash grabs. These platforms rely heavily on ad revenue, and, while they have policies against scams, it can be challenging to monitor all ad content due to the sheer volume. Many scam ads often feature unrealistic claims, celebrity impersonations, or too-good-to-be-true offers.
Here are some ways to spot potentially scammy ads:
1. Watch for "Get Rich Quick" schemes – These often promise large rewards with little effort.
2. Check for brand impersonation – Some ads mimic well-known brands but have slightly altered names or URLs.
3. Look out for fake reviews or testimonials – Scam ads often use fake testimonials or stock images to gain trust.
4. Verify URLs – Genuine companies typically link to secure, recognizable websites, while scams may redirect you to odd or unfamiliar sites.
If an ad seems suspicious, you can report it directly on both platforms, which helps the companies improve their ad filtering.
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