A stranger messaged me on Instagram with a model's photo. Is it a scam?
Almost always, yes. Attractive strangers do not DM people at random; these accounts are usually run by scammers who are fishing for someone who will reply, and the chat soon turns to a private video call, a crypto "opportunity" or a request for money.
Common versions: a woman who "accidentally" messaged you and wants to be friends, a trader who shows a luxury lifestyle, or someone who moves the chat to WhatsApp and quickly suggests a video call – which may be recorded for sextortion.
What to do
- Do not reply, or reply only inside Instagram – do not share your number.
- Reverse image search the profile photo; model photos show up on many other accounts.
- Look at the account: few posts, many followers but no real comments, created recently.
- Never accept a video call from a stranger, and never undress on a call.
- Report and block the account if it asks for money, crypto or private photos.
Frequently asked questions
- The person says they followed me by mistake and apologised. Is that a trick?
- Yes, the "wrong number" or "wrong account" opening is a well-known scam script. It is meant to start a conversation that feels accidental.
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