Scam Message Checker

Instagram DM scam checker

Instagram DMs are used for account-takeover and investment scams. Check a message below before you respond.

Check message privately

Runs in your browser. No login. Message not stored.

Before you paste: remove OTPs, passwords, card numbers, IDs, and private keys.

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The link is analysed locally and never opened or visited.

What is it asking for? (tick any)

Your result includes:

  • Risk level
  • Red flags found
  • Safe next steps
  • Recovery guide
  • Reporting options

Your result will appear here

Paste a message and choose Check message to see your safety guidance.

  • A calm risk level
  • Red flags found
  • Safe next steps
  • Official reporting links
  • A family-safe summary

Your pasted message is not shown in shared or printed summaries.

Common Instagram DM scams

  • Account-recovery or "help me get back in" requests
  • Fake brand sponsorship or paid-collaboration offers
  • Crypto or trading "mentor" pitches
  • Verification-badge phishing

Red flags on Instagram DM

  • A friend's account suddenly asks for a login code
  • Offers that require you to click a link to "claim" something
  • Pressure to move to WhatsApp or Telegram
  • Promises of guaranteed investment returns

Safety tips

  • Never share a login or recovery code from a DM.
  • Turn on two-factor authentication.
  • Verify sponsorships through official brand channels.
  • Report and block suspicious accounts.

Related scam types

Instagram account recovery scamA scammer offers to 'help recover' or 'verify' your Instagram, or impersonates support, to steal your login.Crypto investment scamA scammer promises high, low-risk returns through a fake crypto platform or 'expert' to take your money.PhishingPhishing is when a scammer pretends to be a trusted person or organisation to trick you into revealing passwords, codes, or financial details, or into clicking a malicious link.

Related scam-type hubs

Related red flags

Glossary terms

Emergency guides

Frequently asked questions

How do I check an Instagram DM message for scams?

Paste the Instagram DM message into the checker on this page. It runs in your browser and shows the red flags, what the message is likely trying to do, and safe next steps.

Is it safe to paste an Instagram DM message here?

Yes. The message is analysed on your device and is not stored or sent to a server by default. Sensitive details are masked before analysis.

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We only collect your email, optional name, consent, signup page, and time. Never include passwords, OTPs, card details, or sensitive documents. See our privacy policy.