Microsoft cautioned its users against a scam that promises "free Xbox points" for wishing the company a happy birthday on Monday.

The software giant debunked the false rumor in a post on its Facebook page. Created by co-founders Bill Gates and Paul Allen on April 4, 1975, Microsoft is celebrating its 38th anniversary this week.

"Please do not respond to [the scam]," it said in the post, which has just over 1,400 likes. "There won't be free Xbox points for the occasion, but we hope you'll celebrate with us nonetheless!"

SEE ALSO: Microsoft Windows Update Hoax Steals Your Passwords

As further evidence of a hoax, Microsoft refers to the points that users can buy to download Xbox Live Arcade games as "Microsoft Points" — not "Xbox points," according to Neowin.net.

Apparently, it's not the first time this particular scam has made the rounds online. Last year, a member of the online forum for video-game developer Bungie commented on similar rumors: "Appearantly [sic] there is a rumor that if you call them, and wish them happy birthday, you get 6000 Microsoft points."

Have you seen this scam offering "free Xbox points?" What other online hoaxes have you encountered? Tell us in the comments, below.

Image courtesy of Flickr, http://www.samcatchesides.com/