Phishing & messages
How can I analyse a suspicious screenshot or message image?
Look for visible domains, urgency language, brand mismatches, and odd UI details. Image analysis can surface clues but cannot conclusively prove authenticity—always verify independently.
What this means for you
A screenshot is easy to fake or crop. Use it to extract leads (URLs, handles, claims), then verify those leads outside the image.
Detailed explanation
Useful clues include the visible hostname, sender labels, urgency (“pay in 15 minutes”), logo quality, and language inconsistencies.
Image analysis tools can highlight text, logos, or known patterns. They cannot conclusively prove a message is authentic or that a person is who they claim.
Deepfake stills and edited chats can look real. Treat media as unverified evidence.
After extracting a URL or brand claim, open official channels yourself or scan the link with Fraudly—do not trust the screenshot alone.
Warning signs and signals
- Cropped URLs that hide the real domain
- Threats or timers designed to skip checks
- Logos that do not match official brand assets
- Screenshots that arrive with pressure to pay or share codes
Practical verification steps
- Transcribe any full URL and inspect the hostname carefully
- Compare branding to the organisation’s official site
- Verify payment or identity claims through a second channel
- Use Fraudly image/link tools for extra signals—then still decide independently
What Fraudly can and cannot verify
Fraudly cannot conclusively prove a screenshot is authentic or unedited.
Analysis provides clues and decision support; independent verification remains essential.
Key trust concepts
Verified identity and trustworthy behaviour are different
Knowing who someone claims to be is not the same as knowing they will treat you fairly.
One warning sign is rarely conclusive
Trust decisions improve when you weigh several independent signals together.
HTTPS does not prove legitimacy
HTTPS encrypts the connection. It does not prove who runs the site or that the offer is genuine.
Related guides
Reviewed: 8 August 2026
This page is educational decision support. It is not legal, financial, or emergency advice.
