How to report a fake ad on Instagram

Fraudulent ads on Instagram can seriously harm both consumers and brands. From fake product listings to phishing schemes, these ads not only deceive users but also damage the reputation of legitimate businesses.

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to detect and report scammy ads on Instagram, so you can protect your brand, and your audience, from digital threats.

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Why It’s important to report fake Ads on Instagram

Instagram's popularity makes it an attractive platform for bad actors. Fake ads often mimic legitimate brands, offering counterfeit goods, redirecting to phishing websites, or tricking users into sharing personal data.

By reporting fraudulent content, you help protect your brand reputation, prevent user scams, and support Instagram’s enforcement of advertising policies.

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How to identify a fake Ad on Instagram‍

Not all ads are what they seem. Here are some red flags that can help you spot a fraudulent one:

• Too-good-to-be-true offers (e.g., luxury items at 90% off)
• Suspicious URLs that don’t match the brand's domain
• Poor grammar or pixelated images
• Urgent calls-to-action, like “Only 1 hour left!”
• Ads leading to lookalike websites that mimic real stores
• Make sure to carefully verify the domain the ad redirects you to.

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How to report a fake ad on Instagram

Instagram allows users to report fraudulent ads directly from the app or through an official web form. Here’s how to do it using both methods:

Option 1: From the Instagram App

1. Tap the three dots on the ad
   When you see the ad in your feed, tap the ••• icon in the top right corner.
2. Select “Report Ad”
   Instagram will show you several options. Choose “Report Ad.”
3. Choose the reason
   Select “It’s misleading or a scam” or the most accurate option available.
4. Confirm the report
   Submit your report. Instagram will review the ad and remove it if it violates their advertising policies.

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Option 2: Use the Instagram Web Form

If the ad is no longer visible or you prefer to report it via browser, you can use Instagram’s official reporting form for misleading or scam ads. Just visit the following link:

👉 Instagram’s Official Ad Report Form

This is especially useful for reporting ads you’ve documented or seen outside the app, and for managing larger-scale brand abuse issues.

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What happens after you report?

Once reported, Instagram will investigate the ad. If it violates their ad policies, it may be taken down. However, for repeat or large-scale offenders, reporting alone may not be enough.

This is where professional brand protection becomes essential.

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‍Protect your company proactively with Smart Protection

Reporting a few ads manually can help, but protecting your brand at scale requires more. At Smart Protection, we help brands detect and remove fraudulent ads, impersonations, and counterfeits across all digital channels, including Instagram.

Our technology:

• Detects scam ads and fake accounts automatically
• Analyzes content and behavior patterns
• Initiates removal requests efficiently and at scale

If you’re facing persistent brand abuse on Instagram or any other platform, we’re here to help.

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Need Help With Fake Ads on Instagram?

You don’t have to deal with it alone. Contact us to learn how Smart Protection can help you identify and remove fraudulent ads that harm your business and your customers.

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