A series of disturbing images has been circulating across social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, often paired with sensational messages like “SWIPE UP” or “See What Happened!” These posts typically include shocking visuals—such as close-ups of a human back covered in dark, crater-like holes, or bizarre, insect-like formations embedded in skin. The image you’ve likely seen, showing a back full of round, symmetrical black lesions and horrifying close-ups of wound-like structures, is one of the most recognizable examples of viral clickbait scams. These images are engineered to provoke strong emotional reactions—disgust, fear, shock—all in the service of driving traffic to external websites. But what’s the truth behind these pictures, and what are these scams actually trying to accomplish?
First and foremost, the images are fake—or at the very least, digitally altered or taken entirely out of medical context. Some may be artistically fabricated using prosthetics, while others are edited combinations of real skin conditions with added graphic effects. For instance, the back covered in perfect black holes does not correspond to any known human disease, and the wound-like structures with insect parts are more in line with horror or science fiction visuals than clinical reality. While they may appear convincing to the untrained eye, medical professionals have pointed out that these presentations don’t match the patterns or appearance of legitimate infections such as monkeypox, anthrax, or parasitic infestations. These manipulations exploit the viewer’s limited medical knowledge and natural aversion to abnormal skin conditions, particularly playing on trypophobia—the fear of clusters of small holes.
The “swipe up” scam built around these images is not merely about disturbing content—it’s a highly effective method of manipulation. Once viewers are sufficiently disturbed or curious, they are prompted to take action, typically clicking a link or swiping up to “learn more.” This redirection often leads to shady websites designed to harvest personal data, push malware, or lure visitors into buying questionable products, enrolling in fake health programs, or falling for affiliate marketing traps. The disturbing content functions as bait, tricking people into lowering their guard because of emotional overload. The dramatic imagery gets around platform algorithms designed to block spam or scams because it’s presented in a medical or humanitarian context—until the link is clicked, and the real scam begins.
The individuals or groups behind these scams rely on the virality of shock content to fuel their operations. The more outrageous and upsetting the image, the more likely users are to engage with it, either by sharing, commenting, or clicking. This tactic is widely used in “engagement farming,” a method of building traffic to a social media page or external site in order to monetize views. Initially, the post looks like a warning about a rare disease or a plea for awareness, but once it gains traction, the creators edit the post to promote something else entirely—often gambling links, crypto schemes, fake sweepstakes, or even phishing attacks. These scam accounts usually disable comments or restrict replies to hide their true intent and to avoid detection by moderators and cybersecurity watchdogs.
What’s particularly dangerous about this trend is how it weaponizes compassion, curiosity, and fear. Many viewers may share the post with good intentions, believing it spreads awareness of a rare medical case or human rights issue. Others may simply want to warn friends or family. Unfortunately, every share boosts the visibility of the scam, giving it greater reach and legitimacy. These tactics exploit not just viewers’ emotions, but also social media algorithms that prioritize highly engaging content. The same mechanisms that lift heartwarming pet videos or inspiring stories also amplify these scams—especially when they provoke extreme reactions.
To protect yourself and others from these malicious campaigns, it’s important to apply critical thinking and digital hygiene. Ask yourself: does the image seem medically plausible? Is there a reputable source or medical organization linked? Are comments disabled or restricted? Does the account share only shocking, click-driven content? If any of these raise red flags, do not interact. Never click links from questionable posts, and report the content to the platform if it appears fraudulent or misleading. Screenshots of scam images should not be shared further without context, as they may continue to spread fear and false information. Instead, use your platform to educate others about the tactics being used and how to avoid falling into the trap.
In conclusion, the disturbing “SWIPE UP” image circulating with what appears to be infected skin or parasitic wounds is part of a widespread scam network designed to exploit your emotions and lure you into unsafe digital territory. These images are not educational nor medically accurate—they are emotionally charged tools crafted for engagement farming, scam marketing, and data harvesting. The best response is not to panic or share, but to stay informed and help others do the same. By resisting the urge to click or spread such content, users can protect themselves and their communities from manipulation and potential harm. Awareness is your best defense in the age of visual misinformation.
