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4 Scams That Target Facebook Users

Fidelity Bank & Trust Points out Facebook Red Flags

photo of Facebook login pageFidelity Bank Keeps You Informed on Facebook Scams

Publish Date September 20, 2018

 

As Facebook has grown in popularity over the last ten years, it has gained traction among cybercriminals to target new victims. Fidelity Bank & Trust wants to make sure consumers know how to spot these fake accounts, so their personal information remains secure.

“Social media has changed the way we interact with each other, and it has made us more vulnerable to cyber attacks”, said Brad Bunce, a Fidelity Bank & Trust security officer. “Knowing what to watch for can help ensure that you do not become the next victim”.

Watch for these 4 Facebook scams

The Iowa Department of Justice recently published an article in its Consumer Focus newsletter, examining four scams that cybercriminals use to target people on Facebook. They include:

  • Friend Requests from an Imposter: Criminals use this scam to gain personal information from the people who accept the friend request. Other advances from the scammer is asking you for money or telling you to click links that contain malware. If you think you or someone you know has had their account cloned, report it to Facebook immediately. It is wise to set your Facebook account settings to show as little as possible to people who are not already your friends.
  • Like This Page and Win: In this scam, cybercriminals will make you think you won a sweepstakes or contest and ask you to send money for taxes and other fees. Never send money or provide personal information, such as bank accounts and Social Security numbers to any page unless it is a certified, trusted source.
  • Your Account Will Be Disabled: If you receive a message that appears to be from Facebook asking you to verify your login credentials, DO NOT DO IT! Facebook never sends out messages asking for personal information. They are simply an attempt to obtain your login credentials to the network. If you receive such a message, report it to Facebook immediately.
  • Look at This Video of You: If you receive this message from one of your Facebook friends, it is likely a scam. Clicking on such a link could allow a cybercriminal to obtain your login information or expose you to malware. If you are unsure if the message is legitimate, contact your friend by phone or email and ask if they posted it.

What to Expect from Fidelity Bank & Trust

Fidelity Bank & Trust uses Facebook for promotions and to engage with the community. We will never ask you to verify information through social media. If you receive a message that appears to be from Fidelity Bank & Trust, asking you to verify any personal information, you can be certain that it did not come from the bank. Report it to Facebook and Fidelity Bank & Trust immediately.

View additional tips for preventing fraud when using Facebook Marketplace.