Common Online Scams Targeting Aesthetic Practices

How to Recognize and Avoid Online Scams Targeting Your Aesthetic Medical Practice

Online scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and business owners are prime targets. Whether it’s a direct message claiming your Facebook page has violated Meta’s rules or an email warning of immediate account suspension, these scams are designed to create panic and manipulate you into taking action. Unfortunately, falling for these scams can put your business at risk of financial loss, data breaches, and reputational damage.

Let’s explore how to recognize common online scams and what to do if you encounter one.

Common Online Scams Targeting Aesthetic Medical Practices

1. Fake Violation Notices from Meta

Our team used to receive almost weekly emails and texts from concerned clients who received startling direct messages in Facebook. Scammers frequently send direct messages (DMs) or emails claiming that your Facebook or Instagram business page has violated community guidelines. They may say that your page is at risk of being suspended or deleted unless you take immediate action, often directing you to a fake login page to steal your credentials.

Red Flags:

• Messages from unofficial-looking accounts, often with misspelled words or odd phrasing.
• Urgent language pressuring you to act immediately.
• Links that lead to pages asking for your login details.
• Emails from addresses that don’t match Facebook’s official domains (@facebook.com, @meta.com).

2. Phishing Emails Disguised as Security Alerts

Phishing emails often pose as official messages from Facebook, Instagram, banks, or other trusted entities, warning that your account has been compromised. They may include links that install malware or steal your personal information.

Red Flags:

• Generic greetings like “Dear User” instead of your actual name.
• Requests for sensitive information such as passwords or credit card details.
• Suspicious sender email addresses (e.g., support@facebook-securelogin.com instead of @facebook.com) There are more sophisticated methods, however. In the image below, the top example would be legitimate, while the bottom example with the different letter a would be fake.

3. Fake Collaboration Offers and Sponsored Post Scams

Many aesthetic businesses receive DMs and emails offering influencer collaborations, paid partnerships, or “feature opportunities.” These often involve requests for login access, personal information, or upfront payment for a service that doesn’t exist.

Red Flags:

• Requests to provide login credentials or payment upfront.
• Poorly written messages with vague details about the collaboration.
• Profiles with low engagement or no verified status.

4. Customer Service Impersonation Scams

Scammers may pose as Meta or email service provider representatives, offering to “help” resolve issues with your account or email security. They might request remote access to your computer or login credentials.

Red Flags:

• Meta and legitimate service providers do not provide customer support through DMs.
• Unsolicited messages asking for private details or account access.
• Requests to communicate outside of official platforms.

5. Invoice and Payment Scams

Some scammers send fake invoices via email, appearing to be from vendors, advertising platforms, or software services you use. These emails often include urgent requests for payment with fraudulent banking details.

Red Flags:

• Unrecognized invoices or payment requests.
• Emails demanding immediate wire transfers or cryptocurrency payments.
• Links leading to payment pages that look suspicious.

6. Business Email Compromise (BEC) Scams

In BEC scams, fraudsters impersonate executives or financial officers via email, instructing employees to send money or disclose sensitive data.

Red Flags:

• Emails from an executive that seem out of character or make unusual requests.
• Requests for wire transfers or access to financial records.
• Subtle misspellings in email addresses that mimic your company’s domain.

7. AI-Generated Deepfake Scams

It’s been reported that scammers are now using AI-generated deepfake technology to create realistic videos, images, or voice messages that impersonate business owners, employees, or trusted partners. These scams are designed to trick businesses into transferring funds, sharing sensitive information, or even approving fraudulent transactions.

Red Flags:

• Unusual video messages or voice recordings requesting urgent action.
• Slight unnatural movements or audio distortions in videos.
• Requests for sensitive data or money transfers that seem out of character.
• Emails or messages containing deepfake content originating from suspicious or unknown sources.

The Risks of Falling for an Online Scam

If you or a team member falls for a scam, the consequences can be serious, including:

• Loss of access to your business page or email account: Hackers can take over your accounts and lock you out.
• Compromised financial data: If payment information is shared, scammers can make fraudulent transactions.
• Reputational damage: A hacked account or email can be used to send spam or inappropriate content to your followers and contacts, even to your patients.
• Compromised office network security: Employees clicking on scam emails can inadvertently allow hackers access to your secure office network, putting patient data at risk. A notorious example involved plastic surgery before-and-after photos—including full names, addresses, and social security numbers—being published online after hackers demanded payment from surgeons to remove them.

How to Protect Your Aesthetic Business from Online Scams

1. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Add an extra layer of security by requiring a verification code when logging in from an unfamiliar device.
2. Verify the Source: Always check the sender’s email address or profile URL before clicking on any links.
3. Never Share Your Login Credentials: Meta, email providers, and banks will never ask for your password via email or DM.
4. Bookmark Official Pages: Instead of clicking on links in emails, go directly to Facebook Business Manager or your bank’s website via your browser.
5. Educate Your Team: Train your staff to recognize scams and report suspicious messages.
6. Use Secure Payment Processes: Verify invoices before making payments, and confirm changes to payment details through direct calls to known contacts.
7. Secure Your Office Network: Ensure your office has up-to-date security software, firewalls, and email filters to reduce the risk of breaches.

What to Do If You’ve Been Targeted

If you suspect a scam, take the following steps:

• Do not click on any links or download attachments.
• Report the message to the organization the scammers are impersonating.
• Change your password immediately if you’ve already clicked a suspicious link.
• Check your page roles and email settings to ensure no unauthorized users have been added.
• Run a security check on your devices for malware.
• Alert your IT team to assess any potential breaches and take preventive measures.

Final Thoughts

Online scams are a growing threat to aesthetic businesses, but by staying informed and cautious, you can protect your business from scammers looking to exploit your hard-earned success. If you ever receive a suspicious message, trust your instincts—when in doubt, verify before you act.

Need help managing your social media and email marketing? Total Social Solutions specializes in secure and effective digital marketing for aesthetic practices. Contact us today to learn more!