Steam Scams

Steam scams are becoming increasingly common, and gamers must know how to protect themselves to avoid becoming victims.

Steam, the popular digital distribution platform, has become a major target for scammers due to its popularity and ease of use. Thankfully, there are steps that gamers can take to protect themselves from Steam scams.

What Is a Steam Scam?

A Steam scam is a type of fraud that takes advantage of people who use the Steam platform. Scammers will often use deceptive methods to get access to a person’s account or personal information, or they may attempt to sell fake goods or services. Some of the most common Steam scams include:

>• Phishing: Phishing is when scammers send an email or message pretending to be from Steam, asking you to provide personal information or log in to your account.

• Fake Items: Scammers may offer items for sale that are not real or are not worth the money they are asking for.

• Fake Games: Scammers may offer games for sale that do not exist or are not available on Steam.

• Fake Profiles: Scammers may create a fake profile pretending to be a real person, then attempt to scam you out of money or items.

• Fake Giveaways: Scammers may offer giveaways that require you to enter personal information or purchase items.

• Fake Refunds: Scammers may offer refunds for items that were never purchased.

• Fake Steam Moderators: (Often seen on Discord): Scammers will claim to be Steam Support/Admin/moderators with usually a Photoshop version of a fake Steam employee badge. 

Protect Yourself from Steam Scams

The best way to protect yourself from Steam scams is to be aware of the potential risks and take steps to protect your account.

Tips to help you stay safe:

• Never give out your personal information or account details to anyone.

• Make sure your Steam account is secure. Enable two-factor authentication, create a strong password, and use a unique email address. (PLEASE! Enable two-factor authentication and NEVER, EVER, give the Steam App generator code to anyone!)

• Take caution when making purchases or trading items. Make sure you know who you are dealing with, and only buy or trade with people you trust.

• Be wary of any offers that seem too good to be true. If something seems suspicious, it probably is.

• Beware of phishing scams. Never click on links in emails or messages that you aren’t sure about. Always check the URL before entering your login information.

• Join the Steam Scams Reddit Group.

• Steam support does not hang out on Discord conducting Steam business. They will never contact you unless you contact them! (Trust me, I have been on Steam for almost 20 years!)

• Report any suspicious activity to Steam Support.

Steam scams are on the rise, but with the right precautions, you can protect yourself from becoming a victim. Be aware of the risks, and take steps to keep your account secure. If you think you have been scammed, contact Steam Support immediately.

As well, if your account has been stolen please remain calm and refer to my older post here on how to get your account back.  

Be Safe and Happy Gaming! -Sixara