I was sent the link to a YouTube live stream where Elon Musk was discussing an “amazing opportunity” during a SpaceX launch. At first glance, the video seemed legit as the name was clearly “SpaceX [LIVE]” and the video looked like what you would expect from a video stream showcasing a launch. As if to highlight how valid the YouTube account and stream were, there were almost 89,000 people watching it. Watching the video for a bit though, it was clear that this was nothing more than a looped video with “Elon Musk” promoting cryptocurrency. This copycat account of the legit SpaceX account had a voice that sounded like Musk telling viewers, “Don’t miss your chance to change your financial life.” It’s a lie.
On the screen while this fake SpaceX stream played, a QR code was displayed that supposedly took viewers to a specific website that showcased an opportunity to take a large share of cryptocurrency. Before getting a share, you had to send in your own small amount. After you did that, “Elon Musk” would double the amount and send it back.
Check for real accounts
Looking past just the name of the channel, one can see the actual user varies quite a lot from the official SpaceX account. This particular scam video feed was using the account “@corp-spacex2024btc”. YouTube seems to be having trouble with numerous live streams running with various names.
Unfortunately, there have been cases of fake SpaceX accounts that are also YouTube verified with the check mark next to their name. The big thing to keep in mind is the combination of the original simplistic name, tied with the subscriber amount, and the verified mark must all exist. All three items together are a good indication the account is valid.
Be vigilant and ask questions
A common saying when it comes to scams that relate to money or financials is that if it’s too good to be true, it probably is. In our current age of the Internet, this saying is no different. What makes it more challenging is the added complexity of technology that many people are unfamiliar with. How do you know what’s real or not? Some scammer techniques can definitely look real.
Here are a couple questions to ask when browsing around the Internet.
- Is there a promise of providing compensation or large sums of money with little work or for free?
- Do you have to provide collateral or some form of payment before receiving a payout?
- Is the account or user rushing you to “act now” or the benefit or payment will be lost?
The individuals who run accounts like the one noted in this posting often prey upon greed or desperation. Remember, nothing is so critical that you have to act within 30 minutes or less. If you are ultimately unsure, pause what you are doing and contact a trusted friend or family member.
I ended up reporting the above channel to YouTube to which I received a confirmation that the account was removed/restricted. That’s one less to worry about but the scammers are relentless. Be safe out there.