WestJet Free Tickets Giveaway Facebook Scam [Explained]

Photo of author

Written by: Stelian Pilici

Published on:

Scams have become increasingly prevalent in the digital age, with scammers finding new and creative ways to deceive unsuspecting individuals. One such scam that has gained traction in recent years is the WestJet Free Tickets Giveaway Facebook scam. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of this scam, including what it is, how it works, what to do if you have fallen victim, and other relevant data.

Scams

What is the WestJet Free Tickets Giveaway Facebook Scam?

The WestJet Free Tickets Giveaway Facebook scam is a fraudulent scheme that targets Facebook users by promising them free airline tickets from WestJet, a popular Canadian airline. Scammers create fake Facebook pages or posts that appear to be from WestJet, offering users the chance to win free tickets by participating in a contest or survey.

How the Scam Works

The WestJet Free Tickets Giveaway Facebook scam typically follows a similar pattern:

  1. Scammers create a fake Facebook page or post that mimics the official WestJet page, using similar logos, branding, and content.
  2. They entice users by promising free airline tickets in exchange for participating in a contest or survey.
  3. Users are required to provide personal information, such as their name, email address, and phone number, as part of the entry process.
  4. Once users submit their information, scammers may redirect them to a malicious website or ask them to download a file or app.
  5. These websites or downloads may contain malware or viruses that can compromise the user’s device and personal information.
  6. In some cases, scammers may also ask users to pay a small fee or provide credit card details to claim their free tickets, resulting in financial loss.

What to Do If You Have Fallen Victim

If you have fallen victim to the WestJet Free Tickets Giveaway Facebook scam, it is important to take immediate action to protect yourself:

  1. Scan your device for viruses or malware using reputable security software like Malwarebytes Free.
  2. Change your passwords for all online accounts, especially if you provided them during the scam.
  3. Monitor your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized transactions and report them to your financial institution.
  4. Report the scam to the appropriate authorities, such as your local law enforcement agency and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
  5. Inform your friends and family about the scam to prevent them from falling victim as well.

How to Spot and Avoid the Scam

While scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, there are several red flags to watch out for to spot and avoid the WestJet Free Tickets Giveaway Facebook scam:

  • Check the legitimacy of the Facebook page or post by verifying it with the official WestJet website or social media accounts.
  • Be wary of contests or surveys that require excessive personal information or payment.
  • Look for grammatical errors or inconsistencies in the content, as scammers often make mistakes.
  • Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading files from untrusted sources.
  • Remember that legitimate companies like WestJet will never ask for personal information or payment in exchange for free tickets.

Summary

The WestJet Free Tickets Giveaway Facebook scam is a deceptive scheme that preys on unsuspecting Facebook users by promising them free airline tickets. Scammers create fake Facebook pages or posts, tricking users into providing personal information or downloading malicious files. If you have fallen victim, it is crucial to take immediate action by scanning your device for malware, changing passwords, monitoring financial accounts, and reporting the scam. By being vigilant and following the recommended precautions, you can protect yourself from falling victim to this and other similar scams.

How to Stay Safe Online

Here are 10 basic security tips to help you avoid malware and protect your device:

  1. Use a good antivirus and keep it up-to-date.

    Shield Guide

    It's essential to use a good quality antivirus and keep it up-to-date to stay ahead of the latest cyber threats. We are huge fans of Malwarebytes Premium and use it on all of our devices, including Windows and Mac computers as well as our mobile devices. Malwarebytes sits beside your traditional antivirus, filling in any gaps in its defenses, and providing extra protection against sneakier security threats.

  2. Keep software and operating systems up-to-date.

    updates-guide

    Keep your operating system and apps up to date. Whenever an update is released for your device, download and install it right away. These updates often include security fixes, vulnerability patches, and other necessary maintenance.

  3. Be careful when installing programs and apps.

    install guide

    Pay close attention to installation screens and license agreements when installing software. Custom or advanced installation options will often disclose any third-party software that is also being installed. Take great care in every stage of the process and make sure you know what it is you're agreeing to before you click "Next."

  4. Install an ad blocker.

    Ad Blocker

    Use a browser-based content blocker, like AdGuard. Content blockers help stop malicious ads, Trojans, phishing, and other undesirable content that an antivirus product alone may not stop.

  5. Be careful what you download.

    Trojan Horse

    A top goal of cybercriminals is to trick you into downloading malware—programs or apps that carry malware or try to steal information. This malware can be disguised as an app: anything from a popular game to something that checks traffic or the weather.

  6. Be alert for people trying to trick you.

    warning sign

    Whether it's your email, phone, messenger, or other applications, always be alert and on guard for someone trying to trick you into clicking on links or replying to messages. Remember that it's easy to spoof phone numbers, so a familiar name or number doesn't make messages more trustworthy.

  7. Back up your data.

    backup sign

    Back up your data frequently and check that your backup data can be restored. You can do this manually on an external HDD/USB stick, or automatically using backup software. This is also the best way to counter ransomware. Never connect the backup drive to a computer if you suspect that the computer is infected with malware.

  8. Choose strong passwords.

    lock sign

    Use strong and unique passwords for each of your accounts. Avoid using personal information or easily guessable words in your passwords. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts whenever possible.

  9. Be careful where you click.

    cursor sign

    Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. These could potentially contain malware or phishing scams.

  10. Don't use pirated software.

    Shady Guide

    Avoid using Peer-to-Peer (P2P) file-sharing programs, keygens, cracks, and other pirated software that can often compromise your data, privacy, or both.

To avoid potential dangers on the internet, it's important to follow these 10 basic safety rules. By doing so, you can protect yourself from many of the unpleasant surprises that can arise when using the web.

Previous

Wizz Air Tickets Giveaway Facebook Scam [Explained]

Next

Grandparent Phone Scams: What You Need To Know!