A Nigerian TikTok creator known as Scope2dTee has clarified a viral video that sparked widespread concern, in which he appeared to claim that he was targeted by online bandits after receiving N100,000 from a TikTok giveaway.
The clarification comes amid a growing trend on TikTok, where videos show users sharing account information to receive money from online scams, often with dangerous conditions attached.
Original Video Sparks Panic Online
In the video that went viral on Monday, Scope2dTee appeared visibly emotional while claiming that after receiving N100,000 during a live TikTok giveaway, he was contacted by “bandits demanding N100 million”.
He stated:
“I also want to confess that I collected N100,000 during a giveaway some bandits on TikTok did. After I got the money, I immediately received an email where the bandits were requesting me to pay N100 million.”
The video drew criticism from social media users, with many questioning why he would engage in giveaways from suspicious online sources, highlighting the risks of online scams targeting Nigerian youths.
Scope2dTee Explains Video Was Awareness Content
In a follow-up TikTok post, Scope2dTee clarified that the video was not a personal confession, but rather intended as an awareness message to educate viewers about the dangers of accepting money from online criminals.
He explained:
“I saw a video on June 7 about people collecting money from bandits, and I was moved by it. So I made a video as a warning, especially to parents, to caution their children against such actions.”
“The video was meant to pass a message; it didn’t happen to me. I made it to show that every action has consequences, so parents will warn their children against collecting money from bandits during giveaways.”
Online Bandit Giveaways: A Growing Threat on TikTok
Experts have warned that TikTok and other social media platforms are increasingly being exploited by scammers and online bandits who lure users into sharing sensitive personal information for fake giveaways.
Videos like Scope2dTee’s highlight the need for digital literacy, especially for young users in Nigeria, as these scams often promise cash prizes but can result in theft, blackmail, or exposure to criminal networks.
With the rise of online scams and banditry-themed TikTok videos, parents and guardians are urged to monitor children’s online activity and educate them on safe participation in online promotions.
Key Takeaways for Social Media Users
- Avoid accepting money from unknown or suspicious online sources.
- Never share bank account details or personal information during online giveaways.
- Educate children about online scams to prevent exposure to potential banditry.
- Social media awareness campaigns, like Scope2dTee’s video, can help prevent online exploitation.
