Over the past few weeks there has been another increase in phishing attempts via Facebook messages. Scammers have been sending messages that look like they contain a legitimate YouTube link.
They’re short, snappy, and whet the appetite of the potential victim to learn more: They’re the latest phishing messages via Facebook Messenger. They contain little text, and may even include your own name and a few smileys. On top of this, they actually seem credible as the message comes from a friend.
What happens if you click the link?
Clicking the link takes you to a deceptively real-looking Facebook login page where you’re asked to enter your Facebook login credentials. These then do end up going somewhere – just not to Facebook. Once you’ve entered your personal login details on this fake site, in a flash your Facebook account is used to spread the message to your Facebook friends.
Oh no, I’ve sent messages like this! What should I do?
Keep calm and don’t panic. This checklist will help with damage limitation:
- Facebook login credentials: Change these right away. And if you use the same login credentials with other accounts, change those too. Facebook’s site includes help with hacked Facebook accounts.
- Inform Facebook friends: Very few will complain about being told. As mentioned, the message makes people curious to learn more – and it seems like more and more people are falling for it.
- Check your computer: You never know whether malicious software has ended up on your computer as a result of you logging in or because of any background processes. The free version of Avira Antivirus will help you with checking.
- Check your browser: Are the settings still as they were before? Have new add-ons/extensions appeared that weren’t there previously?
I’ve received a message like this – what should I do?
The answer’s really simple: (Practically) nothing. You should let the sender know about what’s happened, otherwise, the message can be safely ignored.