Beware of Fake Accounts on NextDoor: Protect Yourself and Your Billings Neighbors

Because, Cybersecurity Awareness Month is EVERY MONTH! 

Beware of Fake Accounts on NextDoor: Protect Yourself and Your Billings Neighbors

As more people turn to platforms like NextDoor to connect with their local community, scammers are finding new ways to exploit these trusted spaces. In Billings, Montana, this has become an increasing concern. Fake accounts and scams can lurk behind seemingly harmless neighborly posts, with bad actors aiming to deceive locals and steal personal or financial information. 

In this post, we will explore the telltale signs of fake accounts and common scams to watch out for. We’ll also provide insights on how to stay safe, grounded in Big Sky Quantum SHIELD’s Cyber Core Values of vigilance, accountability, and integrity. 

Signs of a Fake NextDoor Account

Whether you're new to NextDoor or have been using the app for a while, it’s important to know how to spot suspicious accounts. Here are some red flags to keep an eye out for in Billings, where your real neighbors likely won’t act this way:

New Account with No Posts or History

   - Fake accounts often lack a backstory. They might have just joined the platform and have no previous posts or comments in your neighborhood discussions. Real neighbors typically contribute or engage in local conversations.

   

Strange Profile Pictures or Incomplete Profiles

   - Be wary of profiles with stock photos, generic landscapes, or no profile pictures at all. Real neighbors are more likely to use identifiable images, like themselves, family, or something relevant to Billings (e.g., local landmarks).

   

Unusually Friendly or Pushy Behavior

   - If someone is suddenly very eager to befriend you, offers help out of nowhere, or seems too pushy to meet or exchange personal information, take a step back. This can be a tactic used to gain your trust quickly.

Unfamiliar Names or Strange Locations

   - Watch for accounts claiming to be from your neighborhood but with unfamiliar names or locations that don’t align with the area. Cross-checking addresses and verifying street names can often reveal inconsistencies.

   

Posts That Seem “Too Good to Be True”

   - Beware of posts offering amazing deals on services, free items, or jobs that seem too good to be true. Scammers often use such bait to lure victims into further interactions that may lead to identity theft or financial scams.

Common Scams to Watch For

Scammers are becoming more sophisticated and use platforms like NextDoor to trick unsuspecting users. Here are some of the most common scams that have been reported across the country and could easily surface in Billings:

Pig Butchering Scams

   - In this increasingly common scam, the perpetrator builds an emotional connection over time, much like fattening a pig before slaughter. They may pose as a neighbor, but eventually, they’ll ask you to invest in a “too-good-to-be-true” scheme, often cryptocurrency or high-return investments. Once they have your money, they disappear.

Donation or Charity Scams

   - Be cautious of users asking for money to support personal emergencies, charities, or causes that seem rushed or emotional. While Montanans are known for their generosity, always verify the authenticity of any donation requests through trusted channels. These scams often prey on people's kindness by fabricating tragic stories.

Service or Contractor Scams

   - Fake service providers can offer incredible deals on home repairs, lawn care, or other services, taking payment upfront but never delivering the service. Always ask for local references, check licenses, and verify their identity with other neighbors.

Pet Sale or Missing Pet Scams

   - Be cautious of posts offering pets for sale or asking for help with lost pets, especially if they ask for a "finder's fee" or upfront costs. Some scammers use emotional tactics, taking advantage of your love for animals to request untraceable payments, often through methods like prepaid gift cards or wire transfers.

BSQS’s Cyber Core Values to Stay Safe

At Big Sky Quantum SHIELD, we believe that staying vigilant and protecting your digital identity begins with a commitment to Cyber Core Values. Here’s how you can apply these values to your daily use of community platforms like NextDoor:

Vigilance: Stay alert to the signs of scams and suspicious behavior online. If something feels off, trust your gut. Don’t hesitate to report posts or accounts that appear fraudulent to platform administrators.

  

Strong Authentication: Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your NextDoor account to protect your login from being compromised. This simple step can block unauthorized access and safeguard your data.

Accountability: If you encounter any suspicious activity, report it immediately to NextDoor support. By holding yourself and others accountable, you help protect your neighborhood from falling victim to scammers.

Prudent Sharing: Be cautious about what personal information you share on the platform. Scammers often use bits of data you provide (e.g., your address, children’s names, or schedules) to build a profile that they can exploit.

Skepticism: Don’t automatically trust everything you see online, even from neighbors. Apply critical thinking and question anything that sounds suspicious or overly enticing.

What to Do If You Encounter a Fake Account

Report the Account: Most platforms, including NextDoor, have a reporting feature. Flag suspicious accounts or posts to help others stay safe.

   

Don’t Engage: Engaging with a scammer can expose you to more risks. Avoid clicking on links they provide or providing any personal information.

Warn Your Neighbors: Post a warning to your community if you’ve encountered a scam. This can help others avoid falling into the same trap.

Educate Yourself: Stay informed about the latest online scams by following BSQS for regular cybersecurity tips and updates.

BE SAFE OUT THERE and STAY VIGILANT!

Your Friendly Neighborhood Cybersecurity Gal!

_@/nastasia