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Risk: Elevated

Webinar: How can I recognize fraudulent advertising on social networks?

Category: Consumer warnings · Published: 16/09/2026 · Last updated: 17/09/2026

Summary

What is this about? Current fraud case, reported by Watchlist Internet. See linked source for details.
Who is affected? Consumers in Germany.
How high is the risk? Elevated

Why is this warning issued?

This warning has been included because it is based on a report from Watchlist Internet. It is intended to protect other users from this fraud scheme. The assessed risk is elevated.

How the scam works

  • Fraudsters place ads on social networks that are disguised as legitimate advertising.
  • The ads promote supposed bargains, prize draws, or heavily discounted branded products.
  • The design is misleading, so that users easily mistake the ad for regular advertising.
  • Anyone who clicks on such an ad risks falling into a cost trap.

How to recognise it

  • Supposed bargains that appear unusually cheap
  • Prize draws on social networks with questionable conditions
  • Branded products at dumping prices that are significantly more expensive in official retail
  • Advertising that is deliberately designed to be misleading and not clearly recognizable as an ad
  • Offers that pressure users into quick decisions and do not leave enough time to verify
  • Prize without participation or 'free' offer requesting personal data
  • Advance payment required for 'fees/taxes'
  • Hidden contract term or follow-up costs

How to protect yourself

  • Examine advertising on social networks carefully before clicking a link.
  • Compare unusually cheap prices with official brand retailers.
  • Read the conditions of prize draws and special offers in full.
  • If in doubt, contact the consumer protection center or the Chamber of Labour.
  • Attend the webinar by Saferinternet.at on 29 September 2026 to receive further practical tips.

What you should never do

  • Do not click on links in ads without checking them, just because they look cheap.
  • Do not enter personal data or payment information prematurely.
  • Do not respond to time pressure created by supposedly limited offers.

Frequently asked questions

What exactly is covered in the webinar?

Using current examples, the webinar explains how misleading advertisements on social networks are constructed and how to recognize dubious offers. It also provides tips on how to avoid cost traps.

When and where does the webinar take place?

The webinar takes place on Tuesday, 29 September 2026, from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm. It is organized by Saferinternet.at in cooperation with the Arbeiterkammer Burgenland and the Arbeiterkammer Niederösterreich.

Who is giving the webinar?

The expert Valentine Auer, BA, Project Lead Research & Innovation, will conduct the webinar.

Does participation cost anything?

The webinar is organized by Saferinternet.at and the Arbeiterkammern Burgenland and Niederösterreich. Information on possible participation costs cannot be obtained from the source – check the registration page directly with the organizer.

Where can I register?

Further information and registration can be found on the Saferinternet.at website.

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Related warnings

Original source

Find more information in the original source.

Watchlist Internet ↗

Update history

  • 17/09/2026Description updated
  • 16/09/2026Warning added from an official source