Flickr uses multiple security layers to protect our community including proactive pattern detection, real-time risk scoring, targeted investigations, and prompt review of every abuse report we receive. However, some scammers still manage to reach members through various platform features.
This article will help you recognize & avoid phishing attempts on Flickr.
If you receive a suspicious message about your Flickr account:
- Don’t reply, click any links, or provide information.
- Report it to us immediately by contacting Flickr Support.
What are phishing scams?
Phishing is a type of online scam that targets people by sending them a message that appears to be from a well-known source, asking them to provide personal identifying information or payment information.
How are phishing scams appearing on Flickr?
Scammers send phishing messages via FlickrMail or post comments that:
- Claim to be from an official source, including Flickr’s Support, Trust & Safety, or official Flickr teams.
- Use urgent or threatening language.
- Pressure you to click a link to verify your account or update your payment information.
How to Recognize & Avoid Phishing Scams on Flickr
Flickr will never ask for your password, payment details, or other personal information via FlickrMail or comments.
How to protect yourself:
-
Check the sender.
- Official Flickr messages don't come from regular user accounts.
- If you can click through to a profile page or reply via FlickrMail, it's not from Flickr.
- Check for typos, incorrect syntax or unusual spellings in messages.
-
Don’t open suspicious links or attachments.
- Never click or visit links or download attachments in unexpected messages.
- Website names can be spoofed: just because a link includes a reputable name (like Flickr), it doesn’t mean it’s always safe.
-
Never share sensitive information.
- Don't provide passwords, payment details, or visit off-platform websites to "verify" your account.
-
Watch for urgent threats.
- Phishing messages use a sense of urgency to bypass your judgment.
- Trust your gut and don’t immediately comply or respond to unusual or unreasonable requests. If you have any doubt, step back and re-evaluate, and Contact Flickr Support for help.
- Use a strong, unique password for your Flickr account.
Again, if you receive a message or comment about your Flickr account that concerns you, please get in touch with us directly as soon as possible. We will promptly review the matter and take swift action if applicable.