Online tools like social media have become a necessary business tool. Scammers are out there trying to get your login and password information and it’s becoming almost a daily event if not more. Here is an example from Facebook:
Clicking this notification brings up:
Clicking this link then brings up a login page that resembles the facebook login where IF you typed in the username and password, you would be giving a scammer your real facebook login and password.
Not good.
It is a problem that Facebook can’t figure these out and automatically block them. Scammers are good at circumventing strategies and the game of whack-a-mole continues. Remember to use your common sense and not overly panic whenever you see one of these. Train yourself and your team with a good security awareness training system and stay out of the grasp of these hackers. These scams aim to deceive unsuspecting users into divulging their personal information, leading to unauthorized access and potential identity theft.
a ) Phishing Emails and Fake Websites
As exampled above here, one prevalent scam technique is phishing, where scammers send fraudulent emails or create fake websites that mimic legitimate social media platforms. These messages often appear convincing, urging you to verify your account or take immediate action to avoid account suspension. They typically include links that redirect you to counterfeit login pages, designed to capture your username and password when entered. To protect yourself, be cautious of unsolicited emails, double-check the website’s URL for authenticity, and enable two-factor authentication for an added layer of security.
b ) Malicious Apps and Third-Party Platforms
Another tactic scammers use is creating malicious apps or partnering with third-party platforms that require access to your social media accounts. These apps may promise exciting features or freebies but actually aim to steal your login credentials. To stay safe, only download apps from trusted sources like official app stores, review app permissions before granting access to your accounts, and regularly review and revoke access for unused or suspicious third-party apps.
c) Social Engineering and Impersonation
Scammers also employ social engineering techniques, such as impersonating trusted individuals or organizations, to trick you into revealing your login information. They may pose as friends, colleagues, or even customer support representatives, claiming there is an urgent need to access your account. Be cautious of such requests and never share your login credentials with anyone. If in doubt, reach out to the person or organization directly through verified channels to confirm their legitimacy.
Protective Measures
- Enable strong, unique passwords for your social media accounts and consider using a password manager for added security.
- Enable two-factor authentication to provide an extra layer of protection.
- Regularly review your social media account settings and privacy options, ensuring they align with your preferences and security needs.
- Be cautious of suspicious emails, messages, or websites. Do not click on unfamiliar links or download attachments from unknown sources.
- Educate yourself about common scam tactics and stay updated on the latest security practices.
- Report any suspicious activity or scams to the social media platform and warn your contacts to prevent further spread.