Telegram has become one of the world’s most popular messaging platforms, with over 800 million active users enjoying its features like encrypted messaging, large group chats, and unlimited file sharing. But with great popularity comes great responsibility – and unfortunately, a host of scammers looking to exploit the platform’s vast user base. As someone who’s been using Telegram daily for years, I’ve watched these scams evolve from obvious fakes to sophisticated operations that can fool even tech-savvy users. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through 25 telegram app scams to watch out for in 2025, complete with real examples and practical prevention tips to keep you and your data safe.
Is Telegram Safe?
Before diving into specific scams, let’s address the elephant in the room: is Telegram actually safe? The answer isn’t black and white. Telegram does offer some robust security features, including end-to-end encryption in secret chats and self-destructing messages. However, it’s important to understand that regular chats aren’t automatically end-to-end encrypted, which has raised concerns among privacy advocates.
Recent news hasn’t been particularly reassuring for Telegram users. In late 2024, cybersecurity researchers uncovered a significant data leak affecting approximately 50 million Telegram users, exposing phone numbers and some user IDs on dark web forums. The breach reportedly occurred through a vulnerability in Telegram’s API that has since been patched. Additionally, Telegram’s moderation policies have been criticized for being too lax, allowing scam networks to operate relatively freely compared to other platforms.
The truth is that Telegram itself isn’t inherently unsafe – but like any social platform, it’s only as secure as how you use it. The app provides the tools for secure communication, but it’s up to users to employ good security practices and remain vigilant against the ever-evolving landscape of telegram app scams. That’s why understanding these scams is so crucial for protecting yourself in 2025 and beyond.
25 Telegram App Scams to Watch For
1. Phishing Scams
Phishing scams on Telegram involve creating fake login pages or websites that mimic official Telegram interfaces to steal your credentials. You might receive a message claiming there’s an issue with your account that requires immediate attention. The message includes a link that directs you to what appears to be the Telegram login page, but is actually a fake site designed to capture your login details.
I received one just last month that looked incredibly legitimate: “TELEGRAM SECURITY ALERT: We’ve detected unusual activity on your account. Verify your identity immediately to prevent account suspension: hxxp://telegram-security.verify-account.com”
The newer phishing attempts are particularly dangerous because they perfectly replicate Telegram’s design, making it easy to fall victim if you’re not paying close attention to the URL. Always remember that Telegram will never send you messages asking you to log in through a link.
2. Fake Investment & Crypto Scams
These telegram app scams involve fraudsters promoting bogus investment opportunities, particularly in cryptocurrency, promising unrealistic returns. Scammers create legitimate-looking investment groups or channels, often with fake testimonials and doctored screenshots of earnings. They build trust over time before encouraging you to invest in their “exclusive opportunity,” only to disappear with your money.
A typical message might read: “I’ve made $15,000 in just 3 days using this new trading algorithm! Our expert team guarantees 300% returns weekly with minimal risk. Limited spots available – DM me now to join our private investment group before we close registration!”
The cryptocurrency space is particularly vulnerable to these scams due to its complexity and the potential for huge gains. I’ve seen entire Telegram channels dedicated to these fake investment schemes, complete with fake admins and testimonials to create the illusion of legitimacy. Remember that no legitimate investment offers guaranteed returns, especially not at the astronomical rates these scammers promise.
3. Impersonation Scams
Impersonation scams involve fraudsters pretending to be Telegram support staff, company representatives, or even your contacts to trick you into sharing sensitive information or sending money. You receive a message from what appears to be Telegram support or a well-known company, often with a stolen profile picture and similar username. They claim there’s an issue with your account or a special offer, then ask for your personal information or payment details.
A friend of mine almost fell for this message: “Hello, this is Telegram Support Team. We’ve noticed suspicious login attempts on your account. To secure your account, please verify your identity by providing your recent login code.”
These scammers are getting smarter about mimicking official communication styles. Always remember that real Telegram support will never ask for your login codes or passwords through direct messages. They communicate through official channels and never solicit personal information.
4. Giveaway & Lottery Scams
These telegram app scams announce fake prizes, giveaways, or lottery winnings that require you to pay a small fee to claim your much larger “prize.” You receive a message claiming you’ve won a prize in a Telegram lottery or giveaway you don’t remember entering. To claim your prize, you need to pay a small “processing fee,” “tax,” or “verification payment.”
These messages often look like this: “CONGRATULATIONS! Your Telegram account has been randomly selected to win $5,000 in our monthly user appreciation draw! To claim your prize, simply pay the $50 processing fee via cryptocurrency to this wallet address: [wallet address]”
I always find these scams particularly amusing because they prey on our desire to believe in free money. Remember, if you didn’t enter a contest, you can’t win it – and legitimate prizes never require upfront payment of any kind. The request for cryptocurrency payments is also a major red flag, as these transactions are irreversible.
5. Fake Job Offers
Scammers post seemingly attractive remote job opportunities with good pay but ultimately aim to steal your personal information or money. You receive a job offer through Telegram that seems too good to be true – high pay, flexible hours, remote work. After initial conversations, they ask for personal information for “background checks” or require payment for “training materials” or “software licenses.”
A classic example is: “HIRING NOW: Remote social media managers needed. $30/hour, flexible schedule, no experience required. Work from anywhere with just your phone! Send your name, address, and banking details to begin the onboarding process.”
The rise of legitimate remote work has made these scams more believable. Many people almost fall for these, especially when the scammers conduct fake AI-generated “interviews” over Telegram to seem legitimate. No legitimate employer will ask for payment to start a job or request extensive personal information before a formal hiring process.
6. Fake Services or Products
These telegram app scams involve selling non-existent products or services, taking payment, and never delivering what was promised. Scammers create convincing Telegram channels or groups selling products at suspiciously low prices. They may show fake reviews and testimonials, then disappear after collecting payments.
During last year’s holiday season, I saw dozens of messages like this one: “EXCLUSIVE DEAL: Authentic Apple AirPods Pro for just $50! Limited stock available. Direct from the factory, 100% genuine. Send payment via crypto or gift cards for immediate shipping.”
I’ve watched these scams explode around the holidays when everyone’s hunting for deals. The products either never arrive, or you receive cheap counterfeits worth a fraction of what you paid. If a deal seems too good to be true, it almost certainly is, especially when the payment method offers no buyer protection.
7. Romance Scams
Romance scams involve creating fake romantic relationships to build emotional connections before asking for financial help. Scammers contact you randomly on Telegram, often claiming to have found your profile “by chance.” They build a relationship over time, sharing stolen photos and creating elaborate backstories. Eventually, they manufacture an emergency requiring your financial assistance.
These scammers are patient, sometimes chatting for months before asking: “I know we’ve only been talking for a few weeks, but I feel such a strong connection with you. I’m stuck at the airport and my wallet was stolen. Could you send $500 for my hotel and new flight? I promise to pay you back when I see you next week.”
These scams are particularly cruel as they manipulate emotions and can continue for months before the financial requests begin. The psychological toll can be even worse than the financial loss. Be extremely wary of romantic overtures from strangers on Telegram, especially if they quickly profess strong feelings or can never video chat.
8. Loan Scams
Loan scams on Telegram offer quick, easy loans with minimal paperwork but require upfront fees that the victim never gets back. Scammers advertise “guaranteed” loans with low interest rates and minimal credit checks. After initial approval, they require “processing fees,” “insurance payments,” or other upfront costs before the loan can be disbursed.
These messages typically look like: “APPROVED! Your $10,000 loan application has been pre-approved regardless of credit score! Simply pay the $200 processing fee to receive funds within 24 hours. No collateral needed!”
These scams target financially vulnerable people who may have been rejected by traditional lenders. Remember, legitimate lenders don’t charge fees before disbursing loans. They deduct their fees from the loan amount itself or include them in the repayment schedule.
9. Charity Scams
Charity scams exploit people’s generosity by creating fake charitable causes, particularly following disasters or viral humanitarian crises. Following a natural disaster or humanitarian crisis in the news, scammers create Telegram channels claiming to collect donations for victims. They share emotional stories and images (often stolen from news sources) to encourage donations.
After the major earthquake in Turkey last year, messages like this circulated widely: “URGENT: Help the earthquake victims in Istanbul. Thousands of children need food and shelter. Every dollar helps save lives. Send cryptocurrency donations to: [wallet address]”
These scams are particularly reprehensible as they not only steal money but also divert funds from legitimate relief efforts. Always verify charities through official websites before donating, and be suspicious of any charity that can only accept cryptocurrency donations.
10. Tech Support Scams
Tech support scams involve fraudsters posing as technical support agents to gain access to your devices or accounts. You receive a message claiming to be from Telegram support or a tech company, stating there’s an urgent security problem with your account or device. They offer to help fix it but need your login credentials or remote access to your device.
These messages often create a false sense of urgency: “SECURITY ALERT: Your Telegram account has been compromised. Our security team is working to secure it. To verify ownership, please share the verification code we just sent to your phone.”
These scams exploit technical intimidation – many people panic when told their accounts are at risk and may follow instructions without thinking critically. Remember that Telegram will never ask for verification codes or passwords through messages. Such codes should never be shared with anyone.
11. Subscription Scams
Subscription scams trick users into signing up for costly recurring services with hidden fees or false promises. You receive a message offering a free trial or low-cost subscription to a premium service, exclusive content, or special Telegram features. After providing payment details for the seemingly minimal charge, you discover unauthorized recurring charges that are difficult to cancel.
A typical message might read: “Exclusive offer for Telegram users: Get premium stickers and enhanced features for just $1.99/month! First week FREE! Click here to activate your premium account: [malicious link]”
These scams often target younger users who might not carefully read the fine print or monitor their bank statements regularly. Always research before entering payment information for any service advertised on Telegram, and be particularly wary of “free trials” that require payment details upfront.
12. Marketplace & Payment Scams
These telegram app scams involve fraudulent sales listings and manipulated payment processes in Telegram marketplace channels and groups. Scammers list attractive items for sale in Telegram marketplace groups at below-market prices. They may use stolen photos from legitimate listings and insist on payment methods that offer no buyer protection, such as cryptocurrency or wire transfers. They might also use fake escrow services that they control.
These listings often look legitimate at first glance: “SELLING: Brand new iPhone 14 Pro Max, still sealed, $500 (60% off retail). Can’t return it because I got two as gifts. First come, first served. Payment via Bitcoin only for quick transactions.”
The pressure of “limited availability” often makes people act quickly without proper verification. I always recommend using official marketplaces with buyer protection instead of Telegram for significant purchases. Never use payment methods that can’t be reversed if something goes wrong.
13. Blackmail & Sextortion Scams
These scams involve threats to release compromising photos, videos, or information unless payment is made. Scammers claim to have hacked your device or obtained compromising images of you. Often, they have no actual material but rely on creating fear and embarrassment to extract payment.
These threatening messages typically read: “I have accessed your phone camera and have videos of you in private moments. I also have your contact list. Send $1000 in Bitcoin within 24 hours or I’ll share these videos with all your contacts and social media friends.”
These messages can be terrifying to receive, but they’re almost always bluffs. Scammers send these messages to thousands of people hoping a few will panic and pay. If you receive such a message, don’t panic and don’t pay – report it to Telegram and block the sender immediately.
14. Fake News & Misinformation Scams
These scams spread false information designed to manipulate users into specific actions that benefit the scammer, often financially. Scammers create convincing-looking news channels or forward messages about financial opportunities, security threats, or time-sensitive actions needed to avoid consequences. The fake news creates urgency that leads victims to click malicious links or make hasty financial decisions.
You’ve probably seen messages like this: “BREAKING NEWS: Telegram will begin charging $4.99/month starting next week. However, if you forward this message to 10 groups and 20 contacts, your account will remain free forever. Act now before it’s too late!”
I’ve seen these spread like wildfire, with well-meaning users unknowingly becoming part of the distribution network for scams. Always verify news from official sources before taking action or forwarding messages. Check Telegram’s official channel or website for any announcements about service changes.
15. Fake App & Clone App Scams
These telegram app scams involve creating counterfeit versions of the Telegram app that steal user data or install malware. Scammers develop and distribute fake versions of Telegram through unofficial channels, promising exclusive features or modifications. These apps look identical to the real Telegram but contain malicious code that steals your information or monitors your communications.
These are often advertised as: “Try Telegram Premium APK for free! Get all premium features without paying. Download here: [malicious link]”
The desire for free premium features often leads users to download these dangerous fake apps. Always download Telegram only from official app stores like Google Play or the Apple App Store. Third-party apps may contain malware that can compromise your entire device.
16. Third-Party Verification Scams
These scams use fake verification badges or claims of third-party verification to appear legitimate and trustworthy. Scammers create channels, bots, or accounts with fake verification badges that mimic Telegram’s official verification. They may also claim to be “verified” by outside authorities or services to establish false credibility.
Their messages often include false credentials: “Our investment group is officially verified by the International Crypto Trading Association and Telegram Security Team ✓. Your funds are 100% secure with our verified admins.”
These false claims of verification exploit users’ trust in official certification systems. Remember that Telegram’s actual verification badge cannot be faked within the platform itself – always check the account details carefully and be suspicious of channels claiming verification by organizations that don’t actually exist.
17. Fake Cryptocurrency Scams
These scams involve the creation and promotion of completely fabricated cryptocurrencies or tokens with no actual value. Scammers create new “revolutionary” cryptocurrencies with elaborate websites and whitepapers. They promote these aggressively on Telegram groups, promising early investors massive returns when the coin “goes to the moon.”
I’ve watched entire communities form around these fake cryptocurrencies, with elaborate pump-and-dump schemes that leave most investors with worthless tokens while the creators disappear with millions. Research any cryptocurrency thoroughly before investing, checking for legitimate use cases, transparent teams, and third-party audits.
18. Fake Exchange Scams
These telegram app scams involve creating fraudulent cryptocurrency exchanges that steal deposited funds. Scammers create professional-looking exchange websites and promote them heavily in Telegram crypto communities. They often offer exceptionally low fees or exclusive trading pairs to attract deposits. Once users transfer cryptocurrency to the exchange, they discover they cannot withdraw their funds.
These promotions often sound too good to be true: “New exchange launching with 0% trading fees for first month! Sign up with code TELEGRAM50 for 50 USDT welcome bonus. Supporting all major cryptocurrencies with instant deposits and withdrawals.”
These fake exchanges often operate for several months to build credibility before disappearing in a “rug pull.” Always stick to well-established exchanges with proven security records and regulatory compliance. New exchanges with extraordinary offers are major red flags.
19. Fake Wallet Scams
These scams involve creating fraudulent cryptocurrency wallets designed to steal users’ private keys and cryptocurrency. Scammers develop and promote counterfeit versions of popular cryptocurrency wallets. These wallets look legitimate but transmit your private keys or seed phrases to the scammers, allowing them to drain your funds.
The urgency in these messages is a key warning sign: “SECURITY ALERT: Urgent update required for all MetaMask users. Download our new security-enhanced wallet version here: [malicious link]. All users must migrate before April 30 or risk losing access.”
The sense of urgency created around “required updates” or “security vulnerabilities” often prevents users from properly researching before downloading these malicious wallets. Always download wallet applications directly from the official websites, never through links in Telegram messages.
20. Fake Mining Scams
These telegram scams promise returns from cryptocurrency mining operations that don’t actually exist. Scammers create Telegram channels advertising cloud mining services with guaranteed daily returns. They may show fake dashboards and initially pay small amounts to early investors using funds from new victims (a classic Ponzi scheme structure).
These offers typically promise unrealistic returns: “Mine Bitcoin without expensive hardware! Our data center handles everything. Invest $100 today, earn 1% DAILY for life! Withdrawals processed instantly. Over 50,000 satisfied customers worldwide.”
The technical complexity of actual cryptocurrency mining makes these scams difficult for average users to verify. If mining returns seem too good to be true, they invariably are. Legitimate mining operations have significant costs and variable returns that depend on many factors including electricity prices and cryptocurrency values.
21. Data Mining Scams
These scams use surveys, quizzes, or games to harvest personal data that can be used for identity theft or targeted scams. You receive a message or join a channel offering fun quizzes, personality tests, or surveys that ask seemingly innocent questions. However, these questions often gather information that can be used to answer security questions or build detailed profiles for identity theft.
These quizzes often hide their true purpose: “Take our ‘Which Marvel Character Are You?’ quiz! Answer these 10 simple questions to find out. Question 1: What was the name of your first pet? Question 2: What street did you grow up on?”
These quizzes go viral in Telegram groups because they seem harmless and fun. However, they’re often collecting answers to common security questions that can be used to reset passwords on your accounts. Be extremely cautious about the personal information you share, even if it seems innocent in context.
22. Account Takeover Scams
These telegram app scams involve hackers gaining control of legitimate Telegram accounts and using them to scam the victim’s contacts. After gaining access to someone’s Telegram account (often through phishing), scammers message their contacts with urgent requests for money or sensitive information. Because the messages come from a trusted contact, victims are more likely to comply.
My colleague fell victim to this when we all received messages like: “Hey, I’m stuck in an emergency situation and need help. Could you transfer $200 to this account? I promise to pay you back tomorrow when I get home.”
These are particularly effective because they bypass our usual skepticism about strangers. When a message comes from someone we know and trust, our guard is naturally lower. If you receive an unusual request from a friend, verify it through another communication channel before taking action.
23. Malware Distribution Scams
These scams trick users into downloading files that contain malware, spyware, or ransomware. Scammers send messages containing attachments or links claiming to be something desirable – like a free movie, game crack, or useful software. When opened, these files install malicious software that can steal data, spy on users, or lock their files for ransom.
These tempting offers are widespread: “EXCLUSIVE LEAK: The new Spider-Man movie full HD download! Available before official release. Download here: [malicious file link]”
The promise of free content or software that would normally cost money is a powerful lure.If something expensive is being offered for free, you’re probably the product – or in this case, the victim. Be extremely cautious about downloading files shared through Telegram.
24. QR Code Scams
These telegram app scams use QR codes that, when scanned, lead to phishing sites or automatically initiate cryptocurrency transfers. Scammers share QR codes in Telegram channels claiming they lead to discounts, free tokens, or event registrations. When scanned, these codes may lead to sophisticated phishing sites or, in some cases, automatically initiate cryptocurrency transactions from wallet apps.
These offers might look legitimate: “Scan this QR code to receive 100 free USDT tokens directly to your wallet! Limited-time airdrop for Telegram users only.”
QR codes are particularly dangerous because you can’t see the underlying link or code without special tools. Never scan QR codes from untrusted sources in Telegram, especially those promising financial rewards or requiring wallet connections.
25. Voice/Video Call Scams
These scams use Telegram’s voice and video call features to conduct live scams, often impersonating technical support or financial advisors. Scammers initiate voice or video calls claiming to be from technical support, banking services, or investment firms. Using professional scripts and sometimes screen sharing, they convince victims to provide remote access to their devices or make financial transactions.
These requests often play on fear: “We’ve detected suspicious activity in your bank account. Please accept our Telegram video call so our security team can verify your identity and secure your account.”
The live nature of these calls adds pressure and legitimacy that text-based scams lack. Scammers can respond to questions in real-time and adapt their approach based on the victim’s responses. Never accept unexpected calls from unknown contacts, especially those claiming to represent financial institutions or tech support.
Prevention Tips for Telegram App Scams
- General Security Practices
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for your Telegram account immediately. This adds an extra layer of security beyond just your password. In Telegram, go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Two-Step Verification to set this up. This simple step prevents unauthorized access even if your password is compromised, which is crucial given the rising sophistication of telegram app scams.
- Use a VPN for Telegram
Services like Bear VPN when accessing Telegram, especially on public Wi-Fi. This encrypts your connection and masks your IP address, making it harder for scammers to target you based on location or intercept your communications. I’ve made this a habit whenever I’m traveling or using cafe Wi-Fi, and it provides significant peace of mind.
- Separate Email Address
Create a separate or even temporary email address specifically for Telegram that doesn’t contain your real name or personal information. This compartmentalizes your digital identity and limits exposure if one account is compromised. This separation strategy has saved many people from having their primary accounts targeted after a breach on a secondary platform.
- Regularly update your Telegram
Developers continually patch security vulnerabilities that scammers might exploit. Outdated apps are more susceptible to certain types of attacks. The January 2025 update specifically included several security enhancements designed to combat the rising wave of telegram app scams.
- Handling Messages and Contacts
Never click on links sent by strangers, even if they appear to be from official sources. Instead, manually navigate to the official website by typing the address in your browser. This simple habit has protected me from countless phishing attempts over the years. If you must click a link, hover over it for preview first to see the actual destination URL.
Set your privacy settings to restrict who can see your phone number and add you to groups. Go to Settings > Privacy and Security and review all options to minimize your exposure. I recommend setting your phone number visibility to “Nobody” and allowing only your contacts to add you to groups.
- Be Skeptical of Unexpected Contacts
Especially those claiming to represent organizations, offering opportunities, or asking for help. Verify their identity through official channels before engaging. Remember that legitimate businesses rarely initiate contact through Telegram – they typically use email, phone, or their own proprietary apps.
Don’t transfer money, cryptocurrency, or gift cards to people you’ve only met on Telegram, regardless of how convincing their story might be. Legitimate organizations never request payment through these methods. I’ve developed a personal rule I call the “48-hour rule” for any Telegram message involving money or personal information: no matter how urgent it seems, I wait at least 48 hours before taking action.
- Content and Information Sharing
Never share sensitive information like login credentials, one-time passwords, or banking details over Telegram, even if the request seems legitimate. Official organizations will never ask for these through messaging apps. This information should only be entered on official, secure websites that you’ve navigated to independently.
Be cautious about the information you share in your profile and messages. Scammers can piece together details from various sources to create targeted attacks or impersonate you. Even seemingly innocent details like your birthday, hometown, or pet names can be used to answer security questions on other platforms.
Verify information before sharing or acting on it. False news about security threats or financial opportunities often spreads rapidly through Telegram. Check multiple reliable sources before accepting extraordinary claims, especially those that prompt immediate action.
Use Telegram’s Secret Chat feature for sensitive conversations. These chats are end-to-end encrypted and support self-destructing messages, providing additional security. Remember that regular Telegram chats aren’t end-to-end encrypted by default, despite common misconceptions.
Consider using a dedicated device or account for financial transactions, separate from the one you use for Telegram and other social applications. This separation creates an additional security layer that can prevent financial losses even if your social accounts are compromised.
Regularly audit the sessions logged into your Telegram account and terminate any you don’t recognize. Go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Active Sessions to view and manage this. I check this monthly and have occasionally found suspicious login attempts that I was able to block before any damage occurred.
Conclusion
As Telegram continues to grow in popularity, telegram app scams will unfortunately become more sophisticated and widespread. The platform offers convenient communication and community-building features, but those same strengths create opportunities for scammers to operate.
The key to protecting yourself lies in maintaining a healthy skepticism without becoming paranoid. Most telegram app scams rely on creating emotion – urgency, excitement, fear, or sympathy – that overrides your critical thinking. By recognizing these emotional triggers and taking a moment to evaluate messages objectively, you can avoid the vast majority of scams.
Remember that legitimate organizations don’t initiate contact through Telegram, don’t ask for payments or personal information through messaging apps, and never need your passwords or security codes. If something feels off, trust your instincts and verify through official channels before proceeding.
Stay vigilant, keep your app updated, use strong security measures, and share your knowledge about telegram app scams with friends and family. By creating a more informed user community, we can make Telegram a safer place for everyone in 2025 and beyond.
