New YouTube scam: fraudulent links distribute malware to content creators

Last update: 11/03/2025
Author Isaac
  • Cybercriminals impersonate YouTube CEO with AI-generated videos to trick creators.
  • Attackers include fraudulent links in video descriptions or private messages.
  • Victims may lose access to their accounts or be redirected to malicious sites that steal credentials.
  • YouTube recommends not clicking on suspicious links and enabling two-factor authentication for added security.

YouTube fraud with malware links

A new modality of digital fraud has put the community of content creators on YouTube on alert. The cybercriminals They have devised a strategy in which impersonate YouTube CEO Neal Mohan, using videos generated by Artificial Intelligence to gain credibility with their victims.

This deception is presented as an official communication from the platform to inform about Alleged changes in monetization. In the video, a link is included that redirects to a website designed for steal access credentials or install malware on users' devices.

Fake YouTube Video Scams

Fake video of YouTube CEO

Some creators have reported receiving Notifications and emails alerting them about changes to YouTube's monetization program. These messages often include a link that leads to a website identical to the official one, but it actually belongs to the attackers. For more information on methods of deception on digital platforms, you can consult The best way to scam an Instagram user.

If the user enters his/her data on the fraudulent site, the attackers can take control of your channel and use it for the distribution of malicious content, scams with cryptocurrencies, or even for request financial bailouts to get it back.

Another variant: scams with false copyright infringements

YouTube copyright fraud

Another tactic used by criminals is to send Fake messages about copyright infringementIn this case, attackers pose as software companies and claim that certain videos are violating copyright, urging the creator to replace links in their video descriptions.

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These links redirect to fake program updates that actually contain malware, which can allow the device remote control of the victim and even the theft of personal or banking data. It is crucial to be informed about how remove adware from android mobile to EVITED these problems.

How to protect yourself from this type of fraud

How to avoid phishing on YouTube

To avoid falling into these traps, it is advisable to follow a series of security measures:

  • Don't trust messages that request urgent changes or indicate that your account may be deleted.
  • Check links before clickingIf a message includes a suspicious URL, verify its authenticity by manually visiting the official website.
  • Do not download files or programs from unknown sourcesIf a video suggests downloading a tool from an external link, do your research before proceeding.
  • Enable two-step authentication in your account Google to reduce the risk of unauthorized access.
  • Report suspicious videos directly to YouTube to help prevent others from falling for the scam.
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YouTube reacts to fraud targeting creators

YouTube's security measures against fraud

In light of the increase in this type of scam, YouTube has issued a statement clarifying that never communicates with its users through private videos. It also recommends that content creators Don't trust links shared in suspicious messages and contact official support if in doubt.

They have also implemented new security measures for the recovery of compromised accounts, streamlining the processes to restore access to those affected. The platform has assured that it continues to work to mitigate phishing risks and improve the protection of its users.

The rise of artificial intelligence has facilitated the generation of Deepfakes are becoming more and more realistic, which forces Internet users to be more attentive to the veracity of the content they consume. Staying informed and taking extreme precautions against any message that generates suspicion is essential.

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