A Portsmouth teen recently rushed to the local fire department, terrified after falling victim to a TikTok scam that quickly escalated into death threats. The boy, shaken and unsure of what to do, showed officers screenshots of the menacing messages. Authorities advised him to block the sender, but this alarming incident highlights a growing danger lurking on social media—scammers preying on kids and teens.
The Rise of TikTok Scammers Targeting Kids
Scammers on TikTok use various deceptive tactics to manipulate, intimidate, and extort young users. Some of the most common schemes include:
“Hitman” Scams – Fraudsters threaten kids with violence or even claim they’ve been “hired” to harm them unless they send money.
“Debt Collection” Scams – Scammers pretend the victim owes money for a purchase or subscription they never made and threaten legal action if they don’t pay up.
Catfishing & Blackmail – Predators pose as online friends or romantic interests, tricking kids into sharing personal information or photos, then using them for extortion.
Phishing Links & Fake Giveaways – Scammers send messages promising free money, Robux, or prizes but actually steal login details and personal data.
How to Protect Your Child from TikTok Scammers
Parents and guardians can take key steps to safeguard their children from online predators and scammers:
Set Strong Privacy Settings – Make sure your child’s TikTok account is private and restrict who can send them messages.
Teach Them to Recognize Scams – Warn kids about fake threats, phishing schemes, and the dangers of sharing personal information online.
Encourage Open Communication – Let your child know they can always come to you if they receive a suspicious message.
Block and Report Suspicious Accounts – If someone is sending threats, block them immediately and report the account to TikTok and, if necessary, local authorities.
Monitor Their Online Activity – Use parental controls and regularly check in on who they’re interacting with online.
Scammers rely on fear and secrecy to manipulate their victims. By staying informed and involved, parents can help prevent their kids from becoming the next target of these dangerous TikTok scams.
