In today’s digitally connected world, online fraud is escalating at an alarming rate. One of the most troubling scams involves fraudsters creating social media accounts in someone else’s name and using them to deceive friends, family, and acquaintances into parting with money. Reports of such impersonation and financial fraud are increasing day by day, sparking widespread concern about online security and personal safety.

The modus operandi is often simple yet effective. A fraudster opens a social media account using the name and profile picture of a genuine person—sometimes even copying their entire profile to appear authentic. Once the fake account is set up, the scammer begins messaging the victim’s contacts, often claiming to be in urgent need of money due to an emergency or some other fabricated crisis. Because the messages appear to come from someone familiar, recipients are more likely to trust and comply without verifying the story.

This type of fraud can affect anyone. "It is common for someone to open an account using my name and send messages to many people asking for money," says one victim. The impact is not just financial; it deeply undermines trust and causes emotional distress among those involved.

Given the surge in such incidents, it is vital for everyone to exercise caution and vigilance. If you receive a message from a social media account claiming to be a friend or relative and asking for money, the best course of action is to contact that person directly—either by phone or through another trusted communication channel—to confirm whether the request is genuine. Do not respond to urgent or emotional pleas for money without verification, as falling into this trap can lead to significant financial loss and heartbreak.

Experts advise adopting additional safety measures, such as enabling two-factor authentication on your social media accounts, regularly updating passwords, and being cautious about sharing personal information online. Reporting suspicious accounts to the social media platform can also help protect others from becoming victims.

Online fraud is a growing menace in the digital age, exploiting the trust that underpins our social relationships. Awareness and prompt action are the best defenses. Protect yourself and your loved ones by verifying every request for money and staying alert to the ever-evolving tactics of fraudsters.