Scammers demand ransoms from Instagram users over fake copyright claims

Instagram content creators are reporting significant financial losses after their accounts were suspended or deleted due to fraudulent copyright claims. Criminals have been submitting false claims to Meta's social media platform, then demanding ransoms in return for the removal of the claims - a tactic that can lead to account bans.

One Instagram user with 1.5 million followers paid a cybercriminal $50 (£37) to regain control of his account, citing Meta's lengthy appeal process that previously cost him thousands in income. Meta claimed to have reviewed the situation and restored affected content while implementing additional safeguards. However, creators told the BBC that Meta struggles to identify clearly bogus cases and that its appeals process is slow unless a monthly fee is paid.

Olly, a creator with over 1.5 million followers, has received numerous fake copyright complaints in 2026. Meta does not verify the authenticity of these claims, so repeated violations can result in account suspensions. Olly often receives multiple strikes at once, leading to contact with the claimant via Telegram demanding payment for claim withdrawal.

The BBC obtained messages from claimants demanding money or threatening further copyright strikes. While Meta has added protections to prevent similar issues, content creators maintain that Meta is ineffective at identifying clear cases of fraud. Law enforcement advises extortion victims not to pay ransoms, as it fuels the criminal network.

Olly paid the extortionist as a last resort due to the speed of the process compared to Meta's lengthy appeals. However, he was struck by additional copyright claims after payment. Olly's account was subsequently demonetized, preventing earnings from high-performing posts. Other Instagram users have shared similar experiences, criticizing Meta's assistance during the ordeal.

Meta charges a £9.99 monthly fee for verified accounts, providing 24/7 support via live chat. Despite Meta's claims, content creators report losing irreplaceable contracts and lacking reassurance or support. Instagram advises only copyright holders or their representatives can report infringement, urging users to contact rights holders directly.

After addressing Olly's and other creators' concerns, Meta added protections to their accounts, claiming to combat deceptive behavior. The BBC interviewed three individuals filing copyright strikes against Instagram users, who deny holding accounts for ransom, claiming they file legitimate claims on behalf of copyright holders. However, the BBC observed messages from one claiming a $900 (£668) fee for claim withdrawal, stating they kept all the money.

Two others denied any financial gain, stating they are sent accounts to target and investigate. These copyright scams are not new, dating back to the early internet days when criminals sent emails or letters claiming copyright ownership, demanding money to avoid legal action. Similar strikes have been used against YouTube users. The recent surge may be attributed to AI, making it easier to execute on a larger scale.