Scam Signature Message: [friend’s name] There is a Website error right now and their shipping out 100 percent free Presents @ apps.facebook… I got it yesterday go before it’s too Latee
Scam Type: Fake Offer, Rogue Application
Trending: May 2011
Why it’s a Scam:
This scam is being spread via comments from a hacked Facebook account or from someone who has a rogue Facebook application installed. The rogue application has permission to post comments as the user of the infected account. This is a prime example of why you should be very selective in the third party Facebook applications you allow to be installed to your account. If you click on the link displayed in the comment, you are taken the following page:
Clicking the Apple iPad 2 id #17 hyperlink loads the familiar iPad scam page we have seen so many times in the past:
This is nothing more than a marketing gimmick designed to get your personal information and hook you into signing up for “special” sponsor offers. You have to complete 13 sponsor offers, complete surveys, etc., and in the end who knows if you really get the iPad; however the scammer has all of your personal information. Be on the lookout for more scams and gimmicks appearing in your mailbox, as well as, identity theft attempts.
How to Deal with the Scam:
If you followed the scam through its completion, then you must remain vigilant due to the reasons stated above. It is dangerous for questionable marketing companies to have access to so much of your personal data.
You also need to let your friend know that their Facebook account has been hacked and/or has a rogue application installed. The need to change their Facebook password and carefully audit any third party apps they have installed on their Facebook account.
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