Instagram impersonating scam: What is it and how businesses can stay protected from them

Scam

Instagram impersonation poses significant threats to businesses, as malicious actors create fake accounts to mimic brands or executives, potentially causing financial and reputational damage. This growing issue underscores the need for businesses to adopt strategies to protect their digital identities.

According to CounterPoint’s report, Instagram impersonation involves fake accounts pretending to represent individuals or organizations. The platform’s ease of account creation and the slow process of reporting and removing fake profiles create opportunities for attackers. Despite measures like reporting options and dedicated forms for impersonation, users and businesses often face delays in action against fake accounts.

Instances of frustration with Instagram’s response include influencers and brands reporting accounts for extended periods without resolution. Automated systems have sometimes mistakenly deactivated legitimate accounts instead of impersonators. Reports suggest that nearly one in ten Instagram accounts may be fake, amplifying the challenge for businesses.

Cybercriminals use fake accounts for various purposes, including collecting sensitive information through phishing scams, distributing malware through fraudulent advertisements, and conducting fake job scams to steal identities or launder money. These activities exploit the trust users place in legitimate brands or individuals.

Steps to combat Instagram impersonation
CounterPoint has also laid out some tips on how businesses can stay protected from such scams.

Education: Employees and customers should be trained to recognize and avoid engaging with suspicious accounts. Phishing training should emphasize that social media platforms like Instagram can also serve as attack vectors.

Monitoring Tools: Businesses can use Instagram monitoring software to track accounts that misuse their brand names, employee identities, logos, or domain names. Automated tools enable continuous monitoring for impersonation.

Takedown Services: Rapid action against fake accounts is essential. Specialized takedown services, such as those offered by Cyberint (now a Check Point company), can expedite account removal, with an average takedown time of 24 hours and a reported success rate of 97%.

By combining monitoring, education, and professional takedown services, businesses can mitigate the risks posed by Instagram impersonation and safeguard their brand and customer trust. Cyberint also provides additional services like data leak detection and VIP protection to enhance digital security.