Are ads on social media vetted or checked for scams? Here’s what to know

You’re browsing your social media feed when an ad grabs your attention mid-swipe: that designer bag you’ve been dreaming of is 50% off for a limited time only! You’re dying to get your hands on one, so you don’t think twice about clicking on the ad. Why would you? The ad is right there in your feed and it looks real, so you trust that it’s legit. But it might not be. That’s because social media platforms don’t always thoroughly vet the ads you see or the advertisers behind them.

Unfortunately, scammers are taking advantage of that, and some consumers are paying the price. According to an FTC data spotlight, in 2025, people reported losses of more than $95 million to scams that started when they ordered something after seeing an ad on social media. And since a lot of people don’t report scams, real losses are likely much higher.

How to avoid fake or scammy ads on social media

Because ads on social media aren’t always thoroughly vetted by platforms, it’s a good idea to check out the company before you buy based on an ad or post. Look online for its name plus “scam” or “complaint.”

Anyone can pay to place ads in your social media feed — including scammers impersonating real brands, selling knock-off products, or touting a program to teach you how to invest and beat the stock market. And they can show you personalized ads based on your online activity like your interests and shopping habits. Check out What To Do About Online Tracking and Personalized Ads to learn how to review and adjust your privacy and advertising settings in your browser, phone, and apps.

Report scams on social media

If you spot or lose money to a fake or scammy ad, report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.