Why Telegram Is a Hotbed for Cyber Scams, And How to Stay Safe?

Telegram has become a growing hub for cybercriminals. Unlike dark web forums, Telegram has low entry barriers. Anyone with a phone number, real or virtual, can create an account and access cybercriminal groups. This easy access, combined with Telegram’s vast user base, makes it a prime target for scammers, hackers, and fraudsters.
Cybercriminals on Telegram often lack the expertise seen in dark web forums. Telegram doesn’t have a reputation system, which allows scammers to easily deceive other users. Hacktivists also use Telegram to share views and incite DDoS attacks due to its rapid content distribution.

Why Cybercriminals Use Telegram

Anonymity and Easy Sign-Up. Telegram allows anonymous accounts using virtual phone numbers. Scammers can create multiple fake profiles and avoid detection.
End-to-End Encryption. Messages are encrypted, visible only to sender and receiver. This ensures privacy but blocks authorities from tracing scam messages.

Large Groups and Public Channels

Telegram supports huge groups and public channels. Scammers use them to share fraudulent schemes with thousands of users. Polls and quizzes often gather personal data for social engineering.

Automated Bots

Scammers use bots for phishing, sextortion, and other scams. These bots target users automatically, with minimal human involvement.

Instant Channel Creation

Cybercriminals can create new channels and groups instantly. This allows fast scam deployment without setup delays.
Global Reach. With nearly 1 billion users expected by 2024, Telegram offers a massive pool of victims. It’s especially popular among cryptocurrency users, increasing its appeal for crypto scams.

What Are Some Common Telegram Scams?

1. Phishing Attacks. Scammers impersonate friends, colleagues, or customer support to steal personal data.
2. Off-Platform Scams. Users get lured to insecure websites, risking malware or data theft.
3. Telegram Bot Attacks. Bots like “X-Files” can steal passwords, session cookies, and credit card details.
4. Crypto Scams. Scammers trick users into revealing crypto wallet details to steal BTC, ETH, and other coins.

The 11 Telegram Scams You Must Avoid

1. Fake or “copycat” Telegram channels
2. “Crypto expert” scams
3. Phishing using bots
4. Fake tech support accounts
5. Crypto giveaways
6. Fake Telegram admin accounts
7. “Classiscam” fraud rings
8. Pump-and-dump crypto channels
9. Fake job offers
10. “Friend in need” scams
11. Romance scams

What to Do If You’ve Been Targeted?

If you only exchanged messages, block and report the scammer.

How to Block a User

1. Go to the profile, tap the three dots, and select “Block user.”
2. How to Report a Scam
3. Send a screenshot and account info to @notoscam on Telegram or email abuse@telegram.org.
4. If you shared personal info or sent money:
   

Check for identity theft signs.

1. Follow identity recovery steps.
2. Alert your bank.
3. Sign up for credit monitoring.
4. Request a credit freeze.
5. Contact the payment processor to try to recover your funds.

What Are the Legal Provisions Against Telegram Scams in India?

1. Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) Section 316: Covers identity theft and fraud using electronic means.
2. Section 317 BNS: Criminalizes impersonation to deceive and gain unlawful advantage.
3. IT Act Section 66C: Punishes identity theft (using someone’s credentials).
4. IT Act Section 66D: Deals with cheating by impersonation using digital platforms.
5. BNS Section 336(2): Penalizes causing harm via computer resources or communication devices.
6. IT Act Section 43: Penalizes unauthorized access and data breaches.
7. IT Act Section 66: Covers hacking and data theft from compromised platforms.
8. BNS Section 337(1): Addresses cyber intrusion and unauthorized data harvesting.
9. IT Act Section 66E: Protects privacy and punishes digital surveillance or secret data collection.
10. IT Act Section 72: Penalizes breach of confidentiality and privacy.
11. BNS Section 304: Covers cheating and dishonestly inducing delivery of property, including crypto assets.
12. IT Act Section 66F: Punishes cyber terrorism, including illegal digital financial activities.
13. BNS Section 109: Deals with criminal conspiracy using digital methods.

How to Protect Yourself from Telegram Scams?

1. Don’t trust links, even from friends. Their accounts may be hacked.
2. Avoid suspicious users or too-good-to-be-true offers.
3. Never share login credentials.
4. Don’t believe threatening messages from “Telegram,” crypto wallets, or banks.
5. Use a strong, unique password with at least 10 characters, including numbers and symbols.
6. Use a password manager for security.
7. Turn on end-to-end encryption and two-step verification.
8. Set up fingerprint or passcode lock.
9. Keep your email and phone number updated to verify account ownership.

Conclusion

Telegram’s accessibility and privacy features attract cybercriminals and scammers. By staying alert, using strong security settings, and avoiding suspicious behavior, you can reduce your risk. Stay informed and always report suspicious activity.