Medium riskSocial Media Scams

Get-Rich Coaching Scam

In this scam, a self-styled mentor messages you promising fast wealth from trading, crypto, or e-commerce, selling expensive courses, 'mentorship', or signal groups built on fake screenshots and lifestyle images.

Quick verdict

Risk level
Medium risk
Scam type
Course / mentorship fraud
Main red flag
A stranger DMs promising to teach you to get rich fast, for a fee.
What to do first
Be sceptical; verify claims and avoid paying upfront for guaranteed riches.

What this scam usually looks like

In this scam, a self-styled mentor messages you promising fast wealth from trading, crypto, or e-commerce, selling expensive courses, 'mentorship', or signal groups built on fake screenshots and lifestyle images.

Example message pattern

Example pattern — not a real report
Example pattern: 'I turned $500 into $50k and I'll show you how. Join my mentorship for $497, limited spots, DM me to start your journey to financial freedom.'

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

  • Promises of fast, guaranteed wealth
  • Flashy lifestyle images and unverifiable profit screenshots
  • Pressure to join now for 'limited spots'
  • Upsells to ever more expensive tiers
  • A push toward risky trading or deposits

What to do

  • Treat guaranteed-riches mentorships with strong scepticism
  • Research the person and look for independent, verifiable results
  • Avoid paying large sums upfront on hype
  • Report misleading financial claims

If you already clicked or replied

  • If you paid, check refund options and dispute if misled
  • Do not deposit into any platform they push
  • Keep messages and materials as evidence
  • Be wary of further upsells and 'inner circle' fees

What not to do

  • Do not pay upfront for guaranteed wealth
  • Do not trust screenshots as proof of profits
  • Do not move into risky trading on a mentor's say-so

Similar scams

High risk Job

Pyramid Scheme Scam

This scam is pitched as a business opportunity, but income comes mainly from recruiting new members who each pay to join rather than from selling a real product, so most people near the bottom lose money.
High risk Social Media

YouTube Creator Scam

The YouTube creator scam targets channel owners with what looks like a brand sponsorship offer. The email or direct message proposes a paid partnership, then asks you to download a 'contract', 'media kit' or piece of software to review. The file is actually an info-stealer that can grab your saved passwords and session cookies, letting attackers take over your channel and bypass two-factor authentication. Verifying sponsors carefully and never downloading unknown files are the key defences.
High risk Crypto & Investment

Forex Trading Scam

In this scam, a fake forex broker, 'account manager', or signal group promises high returns, shows fake gains on a slick dashboard, and pressures you to deposit more, then blocks withdrawals or disappears.

Frequently asked questions

Are all online courses scams?
No, but be cautious of mentors promising fast, guaranteed riches. Genuine education does not guarantee profits, and hype plus pressure is a warning sign.
The screenshots looked impressive. Real?
Profit screenshots and lifestyle images are easily faked. Look for independent, verifiable evidence before paying anything.
I paid for mentorship. Can I get a refund?
Check the refund policy, dispute the charge if you were misled, and avoid further upsells or deposits into platforms they recommend.
How do I learn investing safely?
Use reputable, regulated sources you research independently, and be wary of anyone guaranteeing returns in exchange for a fee.

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.