Who Does Your Teen Follow Online? What Parents Should Know About Scamfluencers

There’s a new kind of influencer rising through the ranks of YouTube, Telegram, and TikTok. But they’re not sharing dance trends or beauty tips. They’re teaching their followers how to scam.

These scamfluencers, as some call them, are content creators who openly promote online fraud—sometimes even selling the tools, scripts, or AI software needed to do it. While most adults think of influencers as entertainers or brand ambassadors, a growing number of teenagers are discovering these darker corners of the internet. And some are copying what they see.

Who is Format Boy, and why should you care?

Format Boy is an online figure who gained thousands of followers by showing others how to run online scams. He’s especially popular among a group known as the Yahoo Boys—West African cybercriminals known for romance scams, blackmail, and fake investment schemes.

“Yahoo Boys have their own terminology—a code of sorts—that helps them run scams (and potentially avoid social media moderation teams). Victims are called “clients.” “Bombing” involves messaging hundreds of online accounts to see if someone responds. Scams are known as “formats” (hence the name Format Boy). And there are formats for all occasions.” (wired.com)

In his videos and voice notes, Format Boy explains how to build fake identities, manipulate people’s emotions, and even use deepfake technology to appear in convincing video calls. His tutorials walk viewers through every step of a scam, from the first message to the final bank transfer. He claims his content is just for educational purposes, but it’s clear many are using his advice to commit real crimes. He also sells discounted AI tools and scam guides on Telegram. While Format Boy hides behind anonymity, the people who follow his methods—some of them teenagers—aren’t so protected.

His tone is often motivational, like a coach urging followers to “stay focused” and “plan for success.” For teens watching, this can make him feel like a role model rather than a criminal.

Who was Hushpuppi, and what made him so influential?

Hushpuppi, whose real name is Ramon Abbas, was a Nigerian Instagram influencer who became famous for his flashy lifestyle—private jets, designer clothes, luxury cars, and luxury homes. For years, millions of followers watched him post glamorous updates with no visible source of income.

Behind the scenes, Hushpuppi was helping run major international scams. He was eventually arrested in Dubai and extradited to the U.S., where he was sentenced to over 11 years in prison for his role in a massive fraud operation that stole millions from individuals and companies.

Unlike Format Boy, Hushpuppi didn’t teach others how to scam. Instead, he glorified the results. He made fraud look like success. For some teens, he represented the ultimate shortcut to a luxurious life.

Related: Inside a Scammer’s Toolbox: Common Tools, Tactics and Technologies

Two Examples of Scamfluencers—and How They Operated

Why would kids follow someone like this?

To adults, it might seem obvious that someone teaching scams is dangerous. But to a teenager, the line between real life and entertainment isn’t always so clear. Format Boy presents himself like a motivational coach. He talks about planning, focus, and success. He even gives “assignments” to his followers.

It’s easy to see how a bored, frustrated, or financially insecure teen could get pulled in. Scamfluencers often show off cash, designer clothes, and expensive cars. They claim scamming is a way out of poverty or a fast track to success. For a young person who doesn’t fully understand the consequences—or who sees scams more like a game—this can be dangerously appealing.

Related: Am I Being Scammed? Finding Out Has Never Been Easier.

What Teens Are Actually Learning from Scamfluencers?

Many scamfluencers post tutorials, scripts, and tools that walk viewers through specific fraud techniques. These can include:

• Using deepfake tools to fake a video call and pretend to be someone else
• Running romance scams over weeks or months to gain trust and steal money
• Sextorting victims with fake identities
• Impersonating police, celebrities, or company executives
• Copy-pasting prewritten messages to trick victims into sharing bank info

Some even create fake news reports to scare victims into paying up, making them believe their private photos or messages have been exposed on TV.

These tactics sound extreme, but the technology is becoming easier to use. Many scamfluencers sell cheap AI tools, voice changers, and guides, making it possible for anyone with a smartphone to try them out—including teens.

What’s the risk for your child?

Most children and teens aren’t going to turn into full-time scammers. But even watching this kind of content can normalize fraud and blur the lines between right and wrong. A teenager might try one of these techniques just for fun—or dare a friend to do it—and suddenly they’re caught in something much bigger than they expected. That choice can carry serious consequences. Getting involved in online fraud can lead to legal trouble, even for minors. But the emotional toll is just as real. Kids who start scamming can end up in adult spaces where they’re exposed to predators, blackmail, and disturbing content. Others might end up victims themselves, manipulated by the very scamfluencers they admire.

How can parents protect their kids?

You don’t need to understand every tech detail. The most important thing is to stay curious and connected.

Here’s what can help:

• Talk openly and early. Bring up the idea of scamming and fraud in everyday conversations. Ask if they’ve heard of scam influencers or seen strange videos about making money fast.
• Pay attention to what they watch and who they follow.
  You don’t need to monitor every move, but it’s important to know what kind of content your child is drawn to. Ask about their favorite creators and why they like them—these conversations can reveal more than you think. Most teens enjoy sharing what they’re into, and it gives you a chance to understand their online world without judgment.
• Use parental control tools. These can help you filter out inappropriate content, set internet time limits, and monitor app usage. Bitdefender Parental Control, included in all paid Bitdefender Family plans, lets you block dangerous websites, schedule device use, and see who your child is talking to.
• Watch for warning signs. If your child suddenly starts using encrypted messaging apps, becomes secretive about their online life, or shows a sudden interest in “getting rich quick,” don’t ignore it.
• Teach critical thinking. Talk about how influencers make money and how some might mislead their audiences. Help your child understand that just because something is online doesn’t make it true—or safe.

Related: What to Do If Your Child Gave Away Your Personal Information to a Scammer

Scamfluencers like Format Boy and Hushpuppi show how online crime is being rebranded as hustle and success. As scams become more convincing and AI tools more advanced, teens may not even realize what they’re getting into.

But parents still have the most influence. By staying involved, asking questions, and setting clear boundaries, you can help your child navigate this new landscape—and teach them that real success doesn’t come at someone else’s expense.