Facebook Scams usually happens when a scammer creates a fake Facebook account or hacks into an existing Facebook account or Facebook page with the sole purpose of tricking users into giving them money or to gain personal information. Facebook scams come in a variety of ways and mostly looks innocent to users, one of such deceitful attack comes in form of Facebook Apps.

These apps like quizzes, games, and tools usually require users to install a few lines of code on their Facebook profile. Users are encouraged to click a button indicating acceptance of user agreement etc. However, some of these apps are not innocent, following the numerous counts of Facebook data breach users are advised to be very mindful of the information they share both on Facebook and other social media platforms.

Although Facebook’s privacy policy points that users can choose which of their information must remain private. Users must know that no system is perfect! Developers and fraudsters will always find ways around safeguards so beware.

Facebook scam warning signs

Internet frauds come with indicators which if you are careful enough will alert you of the situation. The two major red flags to be aware of when it comes to online scams are;

A request for your password

And then, a request for your credit card information

Sometimes these request might seem reasonable depending on the context. But scammers use these as a means to take advantage of users! Always do a little legwork and research whatever app you’re installing before giving out any sensitive information.

If an app or a page takes you to a new webpage while trying to perform a task, pay close attention to the domain name of the new page! Facebook scams have gone to the level where scammers clown a facebook page and request you to login thus stealing your details. So if the domain name seems fishy, abort! Also, beware of pop-up messages requesting you to download or install additional apps. Sometimes those are potential malware attacks.

Sometimes, your Facebook friend might fall, a victim of these Facebook scams, then you’ll receive messages from them requesting you to visit a link. It’s wise to reply such messages to get details about the link and cleverly ask questions to verify. Look out for anything different with the response. If the wordings of the response is unlike that of your friend then it’s an indicator that something is not right! Most online frauds are done even without the need to hack user accounts, most victims give out their information willingly.

How to Avoid Facebook Scams

Facebook scams are predominantly carried out using these common tricks;

The scammers trick users by appealing to their vanity. They come with links encouraging users to visit a certain website to make them look funny or something of that nature. The website will likely lead the victim to download a malware.

Romance Facebook scams typically come from fake accounts or impersonators pretending to be divorced, widowed or in a bad relationship. They try to start up an online relationship with potential victims in hopes of getting flight money or visas.

Then, links promising get-rich-quick schemes

Another common trick for facebook scams is the lottery scheme. They usually impersonate a government agency. Claiming to award you a lottery which you shall receive by making a small advance deposit.

And finally, users are tempted to share their credit card number which leads to credit card frauds.

What to do if you’ve fallen victim of Facebook Scams

Having mentioned the common tricks these scammers use to trick users, you’re encouraged to watch out for the red flags while online. However, if you’ve fallen victim to these tricks, depending on what trick has been used on you, here are some things you can do;