Scam Signature Message: Get Your 2 Free Southwest Tickets Now! Ends Sunday
Scam Type: Comment Exploit, Bogus Offer
Trending: May 2011
Why it’s a Scam:
Clicking the wall post link takes you to the following page:
Clicking the “Comment” button posts this the very same status update to your Wall and loads the following bogus offer:
If you read the fine, you must complete several “reward offers.” Not only is this a ridiculous hoop to jump through, and will cost you a lot of money in the end, but the scammers are acquiring a treasure trove of your personal data. You will be required to provide your name, address, phone numbers and date of birth. This will enable the shady marketers to not only spam your Facebook account, but also harass you via snail mail, phone calls and text messages.
How to Deal with the Scam:
If you did make the mistake of commenting on the main page, you are now spamming your friends with the scammer’s message. You should clean-up your newsfeed and profile to remove references to the scam. (click the “x” in the top right hand corner of the post).
The level of damage control required will largely depend on how many “special offers” you participated in. If you submitted your name, address, email, etc., then be on the lookout for more bogus offers arriving in your email and regular mail. Also be on alert for identity theft attempts.
If you or your Facebook friends are falling for tricks like this, it’s time to get yourself informed of the latest threats. Be sure to join the Facecrooks page on Facebook to be kept informed of the latest security issues. Also check out:
Your Ultimate Guide to Facebook Scams and How to Deal with Them
How to spot a Facebook Survey Scam
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