News about Facebook implementing a “dislike” feature has been buzzing for a while. Con artists are attempting to take advantage of this news by posting links supposedly to get the “newly enabled Dislike button”. When users click the link they are directed to malicious websites that require users to allow Facebook access to their account information. Some links click through to surveys or prompt users to share or like the post in order to receive the feature.
Visits to these malicious sites often lead to spamming, unauthorized posts on your timeline, and it’s possible the links can install malware on your computer. Typically, when Facebook implements new features, it is not done through surveys, nor do they require you to share or like the post to utilize them.
While social media is a great way to spread news, share information, and keep up-to-date on current events, it’s also a breeding ground for scams and a very quick way to spread misinformation. Though something may seem to be legitimate, it’s always advisable to fact check before you click on any offer or share posts.
Keep these tips in mind to safeguard yourself:
- Never give out your personal or financial information to someone you have not thoroughly investigated or to anyone that does not disclose specifically why and how they will use the information.
- Surveys do not require you to enter your credit card information.
- If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Before you proceed with the offer, check it out online. If it’s a scam you may find others have posted about it as a warning.
- Let others know about the scam so they don’t fall victim to it. File a complaint with Business Consumer Alliance (“BCA”) or leave a review to alert others. You can also contact BCA about questionable offers and scams.
Keep updated on trending topics and scams by joining our Consumer Ally Program and following BCA on Facebook and Twitter. Before you pay, check BCA!
Check out these articles from BCA warning of other scams circulating on social media:
JCPenney and Target $100 off “Back to School” Coupon Hoax
BCA Scam Watch: "Money Flipping" is a Flop
About Business Consumer Alliance
Business Consumer Alliance (BCA) is a non-profit company that started in 1928. The broad purpose of BCA is to promote business self-regulation. BCA's mission is achieved by assisting consumers in resolving complaints with businesses and using that complaint information, along with other relevant information such as customer reviews, to forecast business reliability. With community support, BCA can identify trustworthy and ethical businesses and warn the public to avoid unscrupulous businesses whose purpose is to defraud the marketplace. BCA also helps businesses promote themselves by providing services and tools to protect their business and reach out to their customers. BCA obtains its funding from member businesses who support the mission and purpose of the organization and who agree to abide by high standards of ethical business practices.