Medium riskSocial Media Scams

Cameo Video Scam

In this scam, an account impersonating a celebrity or a fake personalized-video service offers custom shout-out clips for a fee, takes payment off-platform, and delivers nothing or a recycled clip.

Quick verdict

Risk level
Medium risk
Scam type
Impersonation / non-delivery (services)
Main red flag
A 'celebrity' or video service offering personalized clips, paid off-platform.
What to do first
Use only official, verified personalized-video platforms; avoid DM sellers.

What this scam usually looks like

In this scam, an account impersonating a celebrity or a fake personalized-video service offers custom shout-out clips for a fee, takes payment off-platform, and delivers nothing or a recycled clip.

Example message pattern

Example pattern — not a real report
Example pattern: 'I'll record a personal birthday video for you! Just send payment by gift card or transfer and I'll film it today.'

This is a fictional, anonymised example used to illustrate the pattern. It is not a verified real message, and any names are used only to show how the scam typically reads.

Red flags to watch for

  • A personalized-video offer via DM
  • An account impersonating a celebrity
  • Payment by gift card or transfer off-platform
  • Pressure to pay quickly
  • No official, verified platform

What to do

  • Use only official, verified personalized-video platforms
  • Verify the celebrity's real account before paying
  • Pay with a method that offers protection
  • Report and block impersonators

If you already clicked or replied

  • If you paid, contact your bank or payment provider to try to recover it
  • Keep the messages as evidence
  • Report the account to the platform
  • Warn others where possible

What not to do

  • Do not pay for clips off-platform
  • Do not trust unverified celebrity accounts
  • Do not pay by gift card or transfer

Similar scams

Medium risk Social Media

Celebrity Impersonation DM Scam

This scam uses a direct message from an account posing as a celebrity or public figure to build a personal connection with a fan, then asks for money, gift cards, a 'membership fee', or details for a fake meet-and-greet or giveaway.
Medium risk Social Media

Fan Event Ticket Scam

In this scam, accounts impersonating a celebrity, team, or fan club offer meet-and-greets, VIP experiences, or exclusive event tickets through social DMs, taking payment for access that does not exist.
High risk Social Media

Deepfake Endorsement Scam

In this scam, AI-generated deepfake videos make a celebrity, official, or brand appear to endorse a product, giveaway, or money-making scheme, lending false credibility to fraud that takes your money or details.

Frequently asked questions

How are personalized celebrity videos sold legitimately?
Through official, verified personalized-video platforms, not DMs demanding gift cards or transfers. Verify the real account before paying.
The account looked like the celebrity. Real?
Scammers impersonate celebrities to take payment for clips that never come. Check the verified account and use official platforms.
I paid for a video. What now?
Contact your bank or payment provider to try to recover it, keep your evidence, and report the account.
Why off-platform payment?
It removes protections and lets the scammer take your money with no accountability. Stick to official platforms.

Last reviewed: June 2026

Disclaimer: This page provides educational information only to help you recognise common scam patterns. It is not legal, financial, cybersecurity, or law enforcement advice, and it does not confirm whether any specific message, company, or person is genuine or fraudulent. When in doubt, contact the official organisation directly and report concerns to your local authorities.