Avoid getting scammed by the "Doge Giveaway" cryptocurrency scheme
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on (updated)
What kind of scam is "Doge Giveaway"?
"Doge Giveaway" is a scam promoted on various deceptive websites. This scheme promises to more than double the DOGE (Dogecoin) cryptocurrency contributions that users make.
In other words, users are to send at least 5000 in DOGE cryptocurrency, and twice the amount will be sent back to them. However, regardless of their contributions - victims of the scam will not receive anything in return.
The "Doge Giveaway" is stated to be created on the idea that this cryptocurrency will "make the world more fair". The scheme claims that the belief is held by Elon Musk - business magnate, industrial designer, engineer, and CEO of both SpaceX and Tesla, Inc.
It must be emphasized that the "Doge Giveaway" is in no way connected to Elon Musk or the corporations/companies he is associated with. Many users access deceptive/scam sites inadvertently via mistyped URLs, or redirects caused by intrusive ads or installed PUAs (Potentially Unwanted Applications).
"Doge Giveaway" scam overview
The "Doge Giveaway" scam states that its purpose is to encourage mass adoption of the DOGE cryptocurrency. The scheme is supposedly a giveaway of one hundred million Dogecoins.
Users are urged to participate by contributing five thousand (or more) DOGE, by doing so they will supposedly have twice the sum transferred back to them. Furthermore, there is a 10% "special bonus" that will be added to the doubled contribution sum.
Should users be too late to participate, the scam reassures that their contributions will be sent back. Five thousand Dogecoins (the smallest amount users can send to have doubled) is worth approximately two hundred USD; however, cryptocurrency rates constantly fluctuate, so the conversion is likely to be inaccurate in the future.
As mentioned in the introduction, "Doge Giveaway" is a scam, and any contributions made to it will not be returned. Therefore, by trusting this scheme, users will experience financial loss.
It is noteworthy that scams like "Doge Giveaway" commonly work alongside other schemes. For example, in tandem with phishing - a type of scam designed to extract sensitive/personal information from its victims.
Data of interest includes (but is not limited to): names, addresses, emails, telephone numbers, account/service/platform log-in credentials (i.e., usernames and passwords), banking account and credit card details, etc. The collected information can be misused in various ways, e.g., employed to further other schemes, sold to third-parties (potentially, cyber criminals), and so on.
Scammers are especially interested in cryptocurrencies because their transactions are difficult/impossible to trace. Hence, it is highly unlikely for victims to recover their losses or for the cyber criminals to be successfully persecuted.
To summarize, by trusting "Doge Giveaway" (or similar scams), users can experience serious privacy issues, financial losses, and other severe problems. Potentially unwanted applications can force-open unreliable, deceptive, and even malicious webpages (e.g., ones promoting "Doge Giveaway").
However, PUAs can have different unmentioned and heinous abilities, e.g., run intrusive advertisement campaigns (adware), modify browsers (browser hijackers), etc. What is more, most of these apps can track data.
PUAs can monitor browsing activity (URLs visited, pages viewed, searched queries, etc.) and collect vulnerable information extracted from it (IP addresses, geolocations, and even personally identifiable details). The gathered data is then monetized by being shared with and/or sold to third-parties.
Therefore, to ensure device integrity and user privacy, all suspicious applications and browser extensions/plug-ins must be removed immediately upon detection.
| Name | Doge Giveaway scam website |
| Threat Type | Phishing, Scam, Social Engineering, Fraud |
| Fake Claim | Scam claims that by contributing DOGE cryptocurrency to it, users can have double the sum returned to them. |
| Scammer Cryptowallet Address | DNtu44cRemfJPcB3YaFK4tUZkW1Xmr1R8o (DOGE) |
| Related Domains | musk-in[.]com, snl-doge[.]org |
| Detection Names (musk-in[.]com) | Emsisoft (Phishing), ESTsecurity-Threat Inside (Phishing), Netcraft (Malicious), Spamhaus (Phishing), ESET (Suspicious), Full List Of Detections (VirusTotal) |
| Serving IP Address (musk-in[.]com) | 190.115.30.171 |
| Symptoms | Fake error messages, fake system warnings, pop-up errors, hoax computer scan. |
| Distribution methods | Compromised websites, rogue online pop-up ads, potentially unwanted applications. |
| Damage | Loss of sensitive private information, monetary loss, identity theft, possible malware infections. |
| Malware Removal (Windows) | To eliminate possible malware infections, scan your computer with legitimate antivirus software. Our security researchers recommend using Combo Cleaner. |
Similar scam examples
"Generate Bitcoin", "BTC giveaway", and "Double Your Bitcoins" are a few examples of cryptocurrency-oriented schemes, and "TikTok Followers Hack", "Fortnite Hack Generator", "Among Us Free Items", "Gift card giveaway" - ones that use the same scam model.
The Internet is full of misleading, deceptive, and malicious content. Popular online scams are: fake giveaways and prize raffles, ludicrous deals and offers, warnings that the device is infected or at risk, alerts that a piece of essential software is outdated or missing, and many others.
Due to how widespread such schemes are, it is strongly recommended to exercise caution when browsing.
How did potentially unwanted applications install on my computer?
PUAs can have "official" promotional/download webpages, which are often promoted by deceptive/scam sites. These applications can also be downloaded/installed together with other products.
This false marketing technique of packing regular software with unwanted or malicious additions - is termed "bundling". Rushed download/installation processes (e.g., skipped steps and sections, etc.) increase the risk of allowing bundled content into the system.
Intrusive advertisements are used to spread PUAs as well. Once clicked on, the ads can execute scripts to make stealthy downloads/installations.
How to avoid installation of potentially unwanted applications?
It is important to research products before download/installation and/or purchase. In addition, only official and verified download channels must be used. Untrustworthy sources, e.g., unofficial and free file-hosting websites, Peer-to-Peer sharing networks, and other third-party downloaders - commonly offer harmful and/or bundled content.
When downloading/installing, it is advised to read terms, study all available options, use the "Custom/Advanced" settings and opt-out from additional apps, tools, features, etc. Intrusive adverts appear legitimate and innocuous; however, they redirect to unreliable and questionable pages (e.g., gambling, adult-dating, pornography, and so forth).
In case of encounters with ads and/or redirects of this type, the system must be checked and all suspect applications and browser extensions/plug-ins detected - removed from it without delay. If your computer is already infected with PUAs, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for Windows to automatically eliminate them.
Text presented in the "Doge Giveaway" scam:
JOIN THE GIVEAWAY
Elon Musk believes that blockchain and Doge will make the world more fair. To speed up the process of cryptocurrency mass adoption, We decided to run 100 000 000 DOGE giveaway.
To participate you just need to send from 5 000 DOGE to 10 000 000 DOGE to the contribution address and we will immediately send you back 10 000 DOGE to 20 000 000 DOGE (x2 back) to the address you sent it from.
For example:
If you send 5 000 DOGE, you will be get 10 000 DOGE back.
If you send 10 000 DOGE, you will be get 20 000 DOGE back.
If you send 100 000 DOGE, you will be get 200 000 DOGE back.
If you send 1 000 000 DOGE, you will be get 2 000 000 DOGE back.
If you send 5 000 000 DOGE, you will be get 10 000 000 DOGE back.
If you send 10 000 000 DOGE, you will be get 20 000 000 DOGE back.
Contribution Special BONUS:
10 000 DOGE + = 1 000 DOGE BONUS
25 000 DOGE + = 2 500 DOGE BONUS
50 000 DOGE + = 5 000 DOGE BONUS
100 000 DOGE + = 10 000 DOGE BONUS
1 000 000 DOGE + = 100 000 DOGE BONUS
10 000 000 DOGE + = 1 000 000 DOGE BONUS
PAYMENT ADDRESS
You can send DOGE to the following address:
DNtu44cRemfJPcB3YaFK4tUZkW1Xmr1R8o
Copy Address to Clipboard
Waiting for payment
7 999 874 / 100 000 000
Last chance
to get your DOGE!
The appearance of "Doge Giveaway" scam (GIF):
Another example of Elon Musk-themed Doge giveaway scam website (dogeforyou[.]com):
Text presented within:
Giveaway Rules Bonus FAQ Transactions To join
Hurry up and take part in the giveaway of 500 000 000 DOGE
During this unique event we will give you a chance to win 500 000 000 DOGE, have a look at the rules and don't miss on your chance!More info
Participate in the giveawayDOGE 500 000 000
USD Dollar 150 000 000Elon Musk Event 2021 Marketplace Price Predictions Live Event 500 000 000 DOGE Giveaway About
We believe that Blockchain and DOGE coin will make the world more fair. To speed up the process of cryptocurrency mass adoption, We decided to run 500 000 000 DOGE giveaway.
Rules
To participate you just need to send from 3 000 DOGE to 3 000 000 DOGE to the contribution address and we will immediately send you back from 6 000 DOGE to 6 000 000 DOGE (x2) to the address you sent it from.
Bonus
For example
If you send 10 000+ DOGE, you will get 20 000+ DOGE back.
If you send 50 000+ DOGE, you will get 100 000+ DOGE back.
If you send 100 000+ DOGE, you will get 200 000+ DOGE back.
If you send 150 000+ DOGE, you will get 300 000+ DOGE back.
If you send 250 000+ DOGE, you will get 500 000+ DOGE back.
If you send 500 000+ DOGE, you will get 1 000 000+ DOGE back.
Extra bonuses
10 000+ DOGE = 10% Bonus
25 000+ DOGE = 20% Bonus
100 000+ DOGE = 40% Bonus
500 000+ DOGE = 50% Bonus
You can only participate once.71 215 016 DOGE already sent to participants!
Hurry up and take part in the giveaway!Use this QR code to participate
71 215 016 DOGE
500 000 000 DOGE
You can send DOGE to the following address:
DD9f4kxzCpdeLXtCyBZrtsaRk5rufZdR5s
Yet another example of Doge giveaway-themed scam website (doge-coin[.]claims):
Text presented within:
DOGECOIN WALLETS WHAT IS DOGECOIN? JOIN COMPETITION GUIDE
1 Dogecoin = 1 DogecoinDogecoin is now listed in all the top exchanges. To celebrate all of our current exchanges listing ,we have committed a total of 5,000,000 DOGE to give away to our fans worldwide. Every person can participate; In order to be eligible, users must have minimum 5000 DOGE during the competition period. All Qualifying users will split a pool of 5,000,000 DOGE.
CHOOSE YOUR WALLET
You have to sync with the blockchain to use Dogecoin. MultiDoge is a "light" wallet. It syncs with the blockchain by "skimming" through the blockchain, providing fast sync times. Dogecoin Core, on the other hand, is a "full" wallet. It syncs by downloading it, providing a solid-working Dogecoin wallet.Multidoge Dogecoin Core Android Wallet
WHAT IS DOGECOIN?
Dogecoin is now listed in all the top exchanges. To celebrate all of our current exchanges listing ,we have committed a total of 5,000,000 DOGE to give away to our fans worldwide. Every person can participate; In order to be eligible, users must have minimum 5000 DOGE during the competition period. All Qualifying users will split a pool of 5,000,000 DOGE.
THE FUN AND FRIENDLY INTERNET CURRENCY.
Dogecoin sets itself apart from other digital currencies with an amazing, vibrant community made up of friendly folks just like you.WHAT'S WITH DOGECOIN AND THE DOG?
"Doge" is our fun, friendly mascot! The Shiba Inu is a Japanese breed of dog that was popularized as an online meme and represents Dogecoin.
HOW TO GET STARTED WITH DOGECOIN.1. Choose your Wallet
Pick a Wallet from our
A Wallet is used for holding your Dogecoins directly on your Computer/Smartphone.2. Configure your Wallet
After downloading, you can configure your Wallet according to our
3. Get Some Dogecoin
There are numerous amounts of ways to get Dogecoin. You can buy them, trade for them, get tipped, "mine" them, and more. They are surprisingly endless!
You can get tipped Dogecoin by participating in .
If that's not your style, the easiest way to have your first Dogecoin is to get them from a faucet.A Faucet is a website which gives you a small amount of Dogecoin for free to introduce you to the currency! All you need is your Dogecoin address.
You can also get Dogecoin by "mining" it. Mining is when you use your computer to process Dogecoin transactions by other people, and in return you get Dogecoin.
Mining is intended for advanced users only, as it requires a lot of technical knowledge to do. If you are interested, .Language
English Deutsch Français Español Copyright © The Ðogecoin Project 2021
Yet another website (dogeparty[.]blog) promoting Doge-themed giveaway scam:
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Quick menu:
- What is Doge Giveaway scam website?
- How to identify a pop-up scam?
- How do pop-up scams work?
- How to remove fake pop-ups?
- How to prevent fake pop-ups?
- What to do if you fell for a pop-up scam?
How to identify a pop-up scam?
Pop-up windows with various fake messages are a common type of lures cybercriminals use. They collect sensitive personal data, trick Internet users into calling fake tech support numbers, subscribe to useless online services, invest in shady cryptocurrency schemes, etc.
While in the majority of cases these pop-ups don't infect users' devices with malware, they can cause direct monetary loss or could result in identity theft.
Cybercriminals strive to create their rogue pop-up windows to look trustworthy, however, scams typically have the following characteristics:
- Spelling mistakes and non-professional images - Closely inspect the information displayed in a pop-up. Spelling mistakes and unprofessional images could be a sign of a scam.
- Sense of urgency - Countdown timer with a couple of minutes on it, asking you to enter your personal information or subscribe to some online service.
- Statements that you won something - If you haven't participated in a lottery, online competition, etc., and you see a pop-up window stating that you won.
- Computer or mobile device scan - A pop-up window that scans your device and informs of detected issues - is undoubtedly a scam; webpages cannot perform such actions.
- Exclusivity - Pop-up windows stating that only you are given secret access to a financial scheme that can quickly make you rich.
Example of a pop-up scam:
How do pop-up scams work?
Cybercriminals and deceptive marketers usually use various advertising networks, search engine poisoning techniques, and shady websites to generate traffic to their pop-ups. Users land on their online lures after clicking on fake download buttons, using a torrent website, or simply clicking on an Internet search engine result.
Based on users' location and device information, they are presented with a scam pop-up. Lures presented in such pop-ups range from get-rich-quick schemes to fake virus scans.
How to remove fake pop-ups?
In most cases, pop-up scams do not infect users' devices with malware. If you encountered a scam pop-up, simply closing it should be enough. In some cases scam, pop-ups may be hard to close; in such cases - close your Internet browser and restart it.
In extremely rare cases, you might need to reset your Internet browser. For this, use our instructions explaining how to reset Internet browser settings.
How to prevent fake pop-ups?
To prevent seeing pop-up scams, you should visit only reputable websites. Torrent, Crack, free online movie streaming, YouTube video download, and other websites of similar reputation commonly redirect Internet users to pop-up scams.
To minimize the risk of encountering pop-up scams, you should keep your Internet browsers up-to-date and use reputable anti-malware application. For this purpose, we recommend Combo Cleaner Antivirus for Windows.
What to do if you fell for a pop-up scam?
This depends on the type of scam that you fell for. Most commonly, pop-up scams try to trick users into sending money, giving away personal information, or giving access to one's device.
- If you sent money to scammers: You should contact your financial institution and explain that you were scammed. If informed promptly, there's a chance to get your money back.
- If you gave away your personal information: You should change your passwords and enable two-factor authentication in all online services that you use. Visit Federal Trade Commission to report identity theft and get personalized recovery steps.
- If you let scammers connect to your device: You should scan your computer with reputable anti-malware (we recommend Combo Cleaner Antivirus for Windows) - cyber criminals could have planted trojans, keyloggers, and other malware, don't use your computer until removing possible threats.
- Help other Internet users: report Internet scams to Federal Trade Commission.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is an online scam?
Online scams are a type of content hosted on the Web that aims to trick users into performing specific actions. For example, victims can be lured into sending money to scammers, disclosing vulnerable information, buying products, subscribing to services, downloading/installing programs, calling fake helplines, etc.
What is the purpose of online scams?
Online scams are designed to generate revenue at victims' expense. Cyber criminals primarily profit by acquiring funds through deception, abusing/selling private data, promoting websites/software, and spreading malware.
I have lost digital assets to the "Doge Giveaway" scam, can I get my money back?
No, cryptocurrency transactions cannot be reversed because of their practically untraceable nature. Therefore, victims of scams like this "Doge Giveaway" cannot get their money back.
Why do I encounter online scams?
Online scams are predominantly endorsed through websites using rogue advertising networks, intrusive ads (malvertising), spam (e.g., emails, PMs/DMs, SMSes, browser notifications, social media/ forum posts, etc.), misspelled URLs (typosquatting), and adware.
Will Combo Cleaner protect me from online scams?
Yes, Combo Cleaner can scan visited websites and detect rogue, deceptive, and malicious pages. It can also restrict all further access to sites hosting such content.
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