Each major streaming platform has its own security features, but also unique vulnerabilities that scammers exploit:
Twitch
Twich is a leader in esports streaming and as one, it is the primary target for streaming scams. Despite verification systems and reporting tools, fraudulent streams frequently appear during major tournaments. Scammers often create channels with names very similar to official ones.
YouTube Gaming
YouTube's recommendation algorithm can sometimes inadvertently promote fake streams if they gain initial traction. The platform's delayed response to reports can allow scams to remain active longer than on Twitch.
Facebook Gaming
With less robust verification systems than its competitors, Facebook Gaming has become a growing target for scammers who exploit the platform's broader user base, many of whom may be less familiar with esports.
Deceptive Tactics Used by Scammers
Modern streaming scams employ sophisticated methods to appear legitimate:
- Title and thumbnail manipulation: Using clickbait titles like "TOURNAMENT FINALS + SKIN GIVEAWAY!" with official-looking graphics.
- Pre-recorded footage: Repurposing footage from previous tournaments while claiming it's live.
- Fake viewbots: Artificially inflating viewer counts to appear more legitimate and popular.
- Impersonation: Creating profiles that mimic official tournament organizers, complete with similar logos and banners.
Recent Examples
In early 2023, during the IEM Katowice Counter-Strike tournament, over 30 fake streams appeared simultaneously on Twitch and YouTube, collectively attracting more than 80,000 viewers. These streams used recycled footage from previous tournaments with overlaid graphics promoting fake giveaways.
Another notable case occurred during The International Dota 2 championship, where a sophisticated fake stream included a professional-looking overlay directing viewers to a phishing site that had mimicked Valve's official domain. Thousands of Steam credentials were compromised before the stream was removed.