Billions of YouTube users told to watch out for ‘cursed’ comment – your bank could be raided

YOUTUBE users have been warned about a dangerous “comment” that could lead to their money being stolen.

The FTC estimated that Americans lost around $8.8billion to scams in 2022 – $2.6billion more than in 2021.

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These scams ranged from romance schemes that prey on vulnerable hearts to cryptocurrency theft.

Now, experts are warning people to be wary of suspicious users on YouTube that may be out to get their money.

YouTube scams

Cybercriminals are using YouTube’s platform to scam unsuspecting gamers.

Specifically, they fraudulently offer people “great deals” on gaming equipment – like PlayStation consoles.

Cyber security expert Donald Mclaughlin of CP Cyber Security Consultants told KDVR that the scheme is becoming more widespread.

That’s because scammers can create fake online identities and appear in the comment section of any YouTube page.

“When you get on the comments section, you are posting about something you enjoy, you like, so people will try to take advantage of that and they will post about something that you want or like,” McLaughlin said.

One man, Sean O’Brien, told KDVR that he fell victim to scammers on YouTube comments purporting to give out PlayStation consoles.

The scammers claimed that while the PlayStation was free, O’Brien had to pay a fee to be eligible for the prize.

However, after he paid that first fee, the scammers kept asking for more money.

“By the fifth time, I said you know what, you guys should say there are all these fees upfront, and I said I’m not paying any more money,” O’Brien said to KDVR.

O’Brien, who lost more than $300 in total, said he felt “stupid, vulnerable, mad” about the situation.

How to stay safe

McLaughlin recommended that YouTubers check out companies with a quick Google search to ensure their credibility.

This is just one of several steps users can take to stay safe while spending time online.

You should always be wary of any messages that claim to offer “free gifts.”

Never click on any suspicious links or feel pressured into downloading any apps.

Also, never send cash, a check, a wire transfer, a cash-reload card, or gift cards to anyone you don’t know.

If you think you’ve fallen victim to a scam, you can file a complaint with the FCC.

This post first appeared on Thesun.co.uk