Fake Friends, Real Threats: How to Spot Scam Requests Online
Social media accounts are often targeted by scams. You may encounter fake messages or friend requests designed to trick you into sharing personal details or clicking on malicious links.
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How Can I Tell If a Follow/Friend Request Is a Scam?
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Follow requests from accounts you don’t recognise.
Incomplete Profiles
Accounts with little information, few posts, or generic pictures.
Urgent Messages
Direct messages that use urgent language, asking you to act quickly.
Suspicious Links
Links that seem odd or unfamiliar, often found in messages.
Too Good to Be True Offers
Promises of rewards or financial gains that seem unrealistic.
Requests for Personal Info
Asking for sensitive details like passwords or bank information.
Common Social Media Scams to Watch For
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Fake Celebrity Accounts
Impersonating famous personalities to gain followers and send scam messages.
Phishing Links
Links that lead to fake login pages to steal your credentials.
Romance Scams
Fake profiles that engage in romantic chats to eventually ask for money.
Job Offers
Promising high-paying jobs with little effort, asking for personal details.
Giveaway Scams
Claims that you’ve won a prize and need to provide personal info to claim it.
Investment Scams
Offers of quick returns on investments, asking for initial deposits.
Why Am I Getting These Scam Requests?
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Data Breaches
Information leaked from compromised databases.
Random Targeting
Automated systems sending requests to random users.
Public Listings
Information found in public directories or on social media.
What Should I Do If I Receive a Scam Request?
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Do Not Engage
Avoid accepting the request or replying to any messages.
Verify the Profile
Look for signs of authenticity, like verified badges or mutual friends.
Report the Account
Use the platform’s reporting features to report the suspicious account.
Block the Scammer
Block the account to stop further interaction.
Stay Informed
Regularly check your privacy settings and be careful about sharing personal information online.
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Auckland, why are we so excited about a new store? 🚗🛒
I think we’ve all seen the traffic notices and headlines about the new IKEA by now!
So here’s the question: why do we get so excited when a new store opens? Convenience? Curiosity? A reason for a weekend outing? We’d love to hear your thoughts!
Keen for an update? The Post has you covered
Night-time roadworks on SH16
From 23 November to 17 December, stop/go traffic management will be in several locations on SH16 between Mabbett Lane and Restall Road (Sundays to Thursdays, 9pm to 5am).
Works will include chipsealing and stormwater improvements. There may be delays to your journey when travelling through the area. Click to find out more.
NZCCM Massage and English Programmes
The New Zealand College of Chinese Medicine (NZCCM) offers industry-focused Massage and English programmes that prepare students for professional practice.
Students gain strong Anatomy and Physiology knowledge, hands-on experience in the student clinic, and pathways into health and wellbeing careers. NZCCM actively incorporates tikanga Māori and Te Ao Māori, partnering with local marae for cultural learning and community treatments.
As Auckland’s only provider of Massage diplomas, NZCCM is enrolling now for February 2026 Programmes include the Level 5 Wellness and Relaxation Massage Diploma and the Level 6 Remedial Massage Diploma, both NZQA-approved with intensive block courses. NZCCM also offers NZCEL Level 4 for academic English preparation.
Open Days will be held on 12 December and 23 January.
Contact: 09 580 2376 or auck@chinesemedicine.ac.nz
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