Picture this. You’re a YouTube creator, and you get an email with a video link. It’s supposedly from Neal Mohan, YouTube’s CEO, talking about big changes to how you’ll get paid. Exciting, right? Not so fast. It’s a scam, and clicking that link could mess up your device or steal your account.
Here’s what’s going on. Scammers are using AI to make a fake video of Neal Mohan. It looks real, sounds official, and claims there are new monetization rules. The message says you need to click a link or download something to keep earning money. But if you do, you’re in trouble. That link can put malware on your device or let scammers grab your login details and even your financial info. They’re betting you’ll act fast because your income’s on the line.
Here’s a screenshot of the email that was shared on Reddit:
YouTube creators are prime targets for this kind of thing. With big followings and a lot riding on the platform, it’s easy to see why scammers think they can catch you off guard. And the private video trick? It’s sneaky because it feels personal, like something YouTube might actually do.
Seems pretty convincing, right? Especially with that @youtube.com domain ending. Luckily, YouTube’s onto it. They’ve put out a warning loud and clear. They never send private videos to share updates. Never. If you get one claiming to be from them, it’s fake. Their advice? Don’t click anything in it. Report it right away using the tools on their site. It’s as simple as that.
This isn’t the only scam out there getting clever. Just a while back, PayPal users got hit with emails that looked real — sent from PayPal’s actual domain. Those messages claimed someone added a new address to your account and bought something pricey, like a MacBook. The catch? You had to call a number, and scammers would trick you into giving them access to your computer.
So, what’s the deal? Scammers are stepping up their game, and it’s on us to stay sharp. If you get a random message or email pushing you to click a link or download something, pause. Check it out through official channels first. Trust your gut — it could save you a lot of hassle.
Dwayne Cubbins
698 Posts
For nearly a decade, I've been deciphering the complexities of the tech world, with a particular passion for helping users navigate the ever-changing tech landscape. From crafting in-depth guides that unlock your phone's hidden potential to uncovering and explaining the latest bugs and glitches, I make sure you get the most out of your devices. And yes, you might occasionally find me ranting about some truly frustrating tech mishaps.
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