Telegram Username Selling Scam: How Scammers Steal Your Handle Without Paying

Telegram Username Selling Scam: How Scammers Steal Your Handle Without Paying

Telegram users who possess valuable usernames are the target of a new fraudulent scheme in the constantly changing realm of online scams. Enticing cryptocurrency offers, especially from TON (Telegram Open Network), are being used by scammers to lure victims, who then steal their usernames without paying a single cent.

How the Scam Works

The Offer

1.  A scammer contacts you, claiming to be interested in purchasing your Telegram username. They offer a significant amount of TON, making it seem like an irresistible deal.

The Fake Transaction Process

1. They instruct you to use a bot like CreateRequest_bot to complete the transaction. The bot appears legitimate, seemingly facilitating a secure exchange between both parties.

The Trap

1.  Once you approve the transaction through the bot, control over your username is transferred to the scammer. However, the promised TON never arrives in your wallet.

The Aftermath

1.  The scammer vanishes, leaving you without your username and without any payment. Your Telegram handle is now in their possession, possibly to be resold to another victim.

Why This Scam Works

• False Sense of Security: The scammers provide video proof showing a legitimate transaction from the seller’s side, making the process seem trustworthy.
• Fake or Manipulated Bots: While Telegram does have official services, scammers exploit third-party bots to deceive users.
• No Buyer Protection: Unlike traditional marketplaces, there’s no escrow system guaranteeing that both parties fulfill their end of the deal.

How to Protect Yourself

✅ Do Not Trust Direct Offers – Scammers often approach users directly, offering unrealistic amounts for usernames. Always verify before proceeding.

✅ Use Official Channels – If Telegram introduces an official marketplace for username sales, use it. Avoid transactions through third-party bots or unverified methods.

✅ Never Transfer Ownership First – If you must sell a username, ensure that the buyer sends funds first through a secure, reputable platform with escrow protection.

✅ Verify Everything – Check the legitimacy of any bot or transaction process before approving anything.

This scam is a new-age digital theft method, taking advantage of the growing market for unique Telegram usernames. Many victims have fallen for it, losing their valuable handles without any compensation. If you receive such an offer, treat it with extreme caution—because in most cases, it’s just another way for scammers to profit at your expense.

Stay safe and always verify before making any digital transactions!