Social media account cloning is a type of identity theft where scammers create fake profiles by copying publicly visible information such as names, photos, bios, friend lists, and posts from real users, especially on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, to create a duplicate account that closely resembles the original.
Using the cloned profile, the scammer sends friend requests to the victim’s contacts while pretending to be them. Once trust is established, the scammer may start messaging these contacts, asking for money, sharing phishing links or malicious APK files, requesting sensitive personal or financial information, or promoting fake investment schemes — all while impersonating the real person to appear more convincing.
How to Spot a Social Media Cloning
1. Duplicate friend requests
You receive a friend request from someone you’re already connected with.
2. Unusual messages
The person suddenly sends messages that seem out of character such as urgent requests for money, strange links, or poor grammar.
3. Profile lacks history
The cloned profile may have little to no activity or very recent posts.
4. Check the username
It may have subtle changes, like added numbers or misspelled names.
5. Friends overlap
Many mutual friends may also have received the same request, indicating a wider scam attempt.
Things to keep in mind:
Adjust your privacy settings to ensure your posts, photos, and personal details are visible only to trusted people as oversharing makes it easier for scammers to impersonate you.
Disable the option that allows others to view your friend list on your social media account.
Be cautious with friend requests, only accept them after confirming the person’s identity, especially if you're already connected.
Do not click on any suspicious links or messages unless you have confirmed that the communication is legitimate.
Never provide personal information in response to unsolicited messages until you’ve verified the source.
Regular search your name online to check for fake profiles impersonating you. If you’re cloned, inform your contacts so they can avoid interacting with the imposter and report the fake account to the platform.
Rest assured that CelcomDigi is actively taking measures to ensure our customers do not fall prey to such scams.
