How fake Twitter accounts could put you at risk

Twitter is a good way to get a message out, but scammers are also using it. 

On some Twitter accounts, you can tell the person is legitimate thanks to a blue check that says they're verified.

But not everyone on social media has had a background check and that includes government officials.

The ABC15 Investigators say you shouldn't take every account at face value.

The Better Business Bureau is warning about scam artists creating bogus social networking accounts.

The feds say there's been an increase in the use of names and photos U.S. officials being used to set up fraudulent accounts.
            
That authority that can be used to fool you.

These accounts are often used to strike up relationships and get your personal information.

Consumer advocates say scammers will use the information to customize scams based on your interests.

The feds say some of those scams are work at home opportunities.

In other cases the scammers hit you with a sad story trying to get your money.

So, as always with social networking, you must know who you're really talking with.

When it comes to government officials, make sure to visit their official websites to see if they are on Twitter or Facebook.

They may have icons you can click to go directly to their accounts.

Are you seeing any scams? Let me know by e-mailing me or going to my ABC 15 Facebook page .