A flood of deceptive messages marked “URGENT SECURITY ALERT – YOUR IMMEDIATE ATTENTION IS REQUIRED” is rapidly spreading across Facebook, specifically targeting page administrators and business owners. These alarming messages assert that your Facebook page is in imminent danger of being permanently deleted due to alleged violations of Meta’s Community Standards. The messages direct you to click on a suspicious link to “appeal” the decision.
At first glance, they appear disturbingly authentic. But in truth, they are a dangerous scam designed to hijack your Facebook credentials. In this comprehensive investigation, we reveal the mechanics of the scam, show you how to identify it, and provide actionable steps to protect yourself and recover if you’ve been affected.
Scam Overview: The Facebook Security Alert Fraud
The “URGENT SECURITY ALERT” scam is a highly deceptive scheme targeting Facebook page admins and social media managers. Posing as official Meta warnings, these fraudulent communications are crafted to instill panic and manipulate recipients into compromising their login credentials.
These scams typically arrive through several channels:
Direct messages via Facebook Messenger
Comments left on your public Facebook posts
Phishing emails that closely mimic Meta’s official communications
Typical Language Used
Common phrases found in these messages include:
“Your page is at risk of being permanently removed.”
“Your page has violated Meta’s Community Standards.”
“Immediate action required within 24 hours.”
“Click here to file an appeal to avoid deletion.”
These alerts often contain hyperlinks leading to what appears to be an official Facebook or Meta appeal portal. However, these sites are expertly crafted for one purpose: to steal your credentials and seize control of your page.
What Happens After the Scam Works
Once you provide your login details, the scammers take swift control:
Your page is renamed to hide its original identity.
Admins are removed to prevent recovery.
Posts are deleted or replaced with misleading content.
The page is repurposed to distribute additional scams, fraudulent ads, or phishing links to your audience.
In many instances, these stolen pages are sold on underground forums or used to run large-scale fraud operations.
Why the Scam Is Believable
Use of Official Branding: These messages include Meta’s logo, copyright information, and sometimes realistic formatting that mimics corporate emails or Facebook interfaces.
Professional Tone and Formatting: The language appears formal and businesslike, adding a layer of credibility.
Deceptive URLs: The scam links often appear similar to real Facebook URLs (e.g., https://api.vc.ru/v2.8/redirect...), tricking users who aren’t inspecting them closely.
Urgency Tactics: By imposing a 24-hour deadline, the scammers hope to force a hasty reaction.
Warning of Severe Consequences: These messages list frightening outcomes such as page deletion, loss of followers, account removal from search visibility, and suspension of monetization.
Psychological Manipulation Tactics
The scam exploits several psychological vulnerabilities:
Fear of Losing Influence: For influencers and brands, losing a Facebook page means losing audience and revenue.
Trust in Platform Communication: Users assume communications using Meta branding are legitimate.
Lack of Technical Awareness: Many users don’t scrutinize links or verify messages through official Meta channels.
Scale and Damage
Once a page is compromised:
Its existing followers can be scammed or phished.
Ads may be run using the original owner’s payment methods.
The reputation of the original page is permanently damaged.
The page might be turned into a bot to boost engagement on other fraudulent pages.
This type of scam can ruin a digital business in hours, and recovery is rarely quick or guaranteed.
How The Scam Works
Step 1: Delivery of the Bait Message
The scam usually starts with an alarming message. It may arrive as a private message, a comment on one of your posts, or an email. The sender appears to be associated with Facebook or Meta and uses a name like “Meta Infringement Copyrights” or “Meta Business Review.”
What the message includes:
A bold subject line: “URGENT: Immediate Action Required.”
Alarming claims of content violations such as hate speech, adult content, or spam behavior.
A call to action to “appeal” the supposed violations within 24 hours.
A hyperlink disguised as a Facebook or Meta support page.
Step 2: Redirection to a Phony Appeal Portal
Clicking the link leads to a highly realistic-looking webpage that mimics Facebook’s interface. The page may display the Meta logo, copyright information, and a cloned layout of Facebook’s real appeal form.
What it typically asks for:
Your Facebook email and password
Your 2FA (two-factor authentication) code
Business-related information such as phone number, address, or even credit card details
Step 3: Real-Time Credential Harvesting
As soon as you enter your information, the data is sent directly to the scammer’s server. There’s often no indication that something has gone wrong. Sometimes, you are redirected to a fake “confirmation” page that says your appeal was submitted successfully.
What the scammers do next:
Use your credentials to log in and take over your Facebook page.
Change your account recovery options to block you out.
Begin removing existing admins to secure full control.
Step 4: Hijacking and Rebranding
Once they’re in, the attackers act quickly:
Your page is renamed to something unrelated or generic.
Past content is deleted or hidden.
New posts are created to promote scams, such as fake crypto giveaways.
Followers are messaged with new scams or phishing links.
Sometimes, your page is merged with other compromised pages to amplify reach.
Step 5: Monetization, Scaling, and Exploitation
With full access to your audience, the scammers go to work:
Launching Facebook ads using your linked credit card.
Promoting scam offers disguised as brand partnerships.
Sending phishing links to your followers to compromise more accounts.
Selling your page on dark web forums to the highest bidder.
This allows the scam to spread further and generate profit rapidly, all while you are locked out and scrambling to recover your digital presence.
What To Do If You Have Fallen Victim to This Scam
Time is critical if you suspect you’ve fallen for this scam. Here is a step-by-step guide to reclaim your account and protect your digital presence.
1. Change Your Facebook Password Immediately
Go to Facebook Settings > Security and Login > Change Password.
Use a strong password with uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
Do not reuse passwords from other platforms.
2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Navigate to Settings > Security and Login > Two-Factor Authentication.
Select an authenticator app instead of SMS for better security.
Store your backup codes in a safe place.
3. Secure Your Account Through Facebook’s Hacked Portal
Follow the on-screen instructions to recover your account.
If your page was connected to a Business Manager, use Facebook Business Help.
4. Report the Scam to Facebook
Use the report feature on suspicious messages, pages, or comments.
If you received an email, report it as phishing.
Document everything with screenshots for future reference.
5. Remove Suspicious Sessions and Apps
Go to Settings > Security and Login > Where You’re Logged In.
End sessions you don’t recognize.
Visit Business Integrations to revoke access to suspicious apps or platforms.
6. Notify Your Followers and Collaborators
Post a message explaining your page was compromised.
Ask your followers not to click on strange links or respond to messages sent during the breach.
Reach out to partners and clients privately if needed.
7. Contact Facebook Business Support
Use Facebook Business Suite to access support options.
Be ready to provide:
Proof of ID
Proof of page ownership (e.g., emails, invoices, screenshots)
Date and time of the breach
8. Scan All Devices for Malware
Run comprehensive virus and malware scans.
Ensure your operating system and browser are up to date.
9. Update Your Passwords Everywhere
Any platform where you used the same credentials should be updated.
Use a trusted password manager to create and store strong passwords.
10. Educate Your Team
Hold a meeting or send a memo explaining the scam.
Train staff to recognize red flags in emails and messages.
Is Your Device Infected? Scan for Malware
If your computer or phone is slow, showing unwanted pop-ups, or acting strangely, malware could be the cause. Running a scan with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free is one of the most reliable ways to detect and remove harmful software. The free version can identify and clean common infections such as adware, browser hijackers, trojans, and other unwanted programs.
Malwarebytes works on Windows, Mac, and Android devices. Choose your operating system below and follow the steps to scan your device and remove any malware that might be slowing it down.
Malwarebytes for WindowsMalwarebytes for MacMalwarebytes for Android
Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Windows
Malwarebytes stands out as one of the leading and widely-used anti-malware solutions for Windows, and for good reason. It effectively eradicates various types of malware that other programs often overlook, all at no cost to you. When it comes to disinfecting an infected device, Malwarebytes has consistently been a free and indispensable tool in the battle against malware. We highly recommend it for maintaining a clean and secure system.
Download Malwarebytes
Download the latest version of Malwarebytes for Windows using the official link below. Malwarebytes will scan your computer and remove adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious software for free.
(The above link will open a new page from where you can download Malwarebytes)
Install Malwarebytes
After the download is complete, locate the MBSetup file, typically found in your Downloads folder. Double-click on the MBSetup file to begin the installation of Malwarebytes on your computer. If a User Account Control pop-up appears, click “Yes” to continue the Malwarebytes installation.
Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes
When the Malwarebytes installation begins, the setup wizard will guide you through the process.
You’ll first be prompted to choose the type of computer you’re installing the program on—select either “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer” as appropriate, then click on Next.
Malwarebytes will now begin the installation process on your device.
When the Malwarebytes installation is complete, the program will automatically open to the “Welcome to Malwarebytes” screen.
On the final screen, simply click on the Open Malwarebytes option to start the program.
Enable “Rootkit scanning”.
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware will now start, and you will see the main screen as shown below. To maximize Malwarebytes’ ability to detect malware and unwanted programs, we need to enable rootkit scanning. Click on the “Settings” gear icon located on the left of the screen to access the general settings section.
In the settings menu, enable the “Scan for rootkits” option by clicking the toggle switch until it turns blue.
Now that you have enabled rootkit scanning, click on the “Dashboard” button in the left pane to get back to the main screen.
Perform a Scan with Malwarebytes.
To start a scan, click the Scan button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its antivirus database and begin scanning your computer for malicious programs.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will now scan your computer for browser hijackers and other malicious programs. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Quarantine detected malware
Once the Malwarebytes scan is complete, it will display a list of detected malware, adware, and potentially unwanted programs. To effectively remove these threats, click the “Quarantine” button.
Malwarebytes will now delete all of the files and registry keys and add them to the program’s quarantine.
Restart your computer.
When removing files, Malwarebytes may require a reboot to fully eliminate some threats. If you see a message indicating that a reboot is needed, please allow it. Once your computer has restarted and you are logged back in, you can continue with the remaining steps.
Once the scan completes, remove all detected threats. Your Windows computer should now be clean and running smoothly again, free of trojans, adware, and other malware.
If your current antivirus allowed this malicious program on your computer, you may want to consider purchasing Malwarebytes Premium to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your computer after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:
Malwarebytes for Mac is an on-demand scanner that can destroy many types of malware that other software tends to miss without costing you absolutely anything. When it comes to cleaning up an infected device, Malwarebytes has always been free, and we recommend it as an essential tool in the fight against malware.
Download Malwarebytes for Mac.
You can download Malwarebytes for Mac by clicking the link below.
When Malwarebytes has finished downloading, double-click on the setup file to install Malwarebytes on your computer. In most cases, downloaded files are saved to the Downloads folder.
Follow the on-screen prompts to install Malwarebytes.
When the Malwarebytes installation begins, you will see the Malwarebytes for Mac Installer which will guide you through the installation process. Click “Continue“, then keep following the prompts to continue with the installation process.
When your Malwarebytes installation completes, the program opens to the Welcome to Malwarebytes screen. Click the “Get started” button.
Select “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer”.
The Malwarebytes Welcome screen will first ask you what type of computer are you installing this program, click either Personal Computer or Work Computer.
Click on “Scan”.
To scan your computer with Malwarebytes, click on the “Scan” button. Malwarebytes for Mac will automatically update the antivirus database and start scanning your computer for malware.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will scan your computer for adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious programs. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Click on “Quarantine”.
When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes has detected. To remove the malware that Malwarebytes has found, click on the “Quarantine” button.
Restart computer.
Malwarebytes will now remove all the malicious files that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your computer.
After scanning, delete any detected threats. Your Mac should now be free from adware, unwanted extensions, and other potentially harmful software.
If your current antivirus allowed a malicious program on your computer, you might want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still experiencing problems while trying to remove a malicious program from your computer, please ask for help in our Mac Malware Removal Help & Support forum.
Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Android
Malwarebytes for Android automatically detects and removes dangerous threats like malware and ransomware so you don’t have to worry about your most-used device being compromised. Aggressive detection of adware and potentially unwanted programs keeps your Android phone or tablet running smooth.
Download Malwarebytes for Android.
You can download Malwarebytes for Android by clicking the link below.
In the Google Play Store, tap “Install” to install Malwarebytes for Android on your device.
When the installation process has finished, tap “Open” to begin using Malwarebytes for Android. You can also open Malwarebytes by tapping on its icon in your phone menu or home screen.
Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup process
When Malwarebytes will open, you will see the Malwarebytes Setup Wizard which will guide you through a series of permissions and other setup options. This is the first of two screens that explain the difference between the Premium and Free versions. Swipe this screen to continue. Tap on “Got it” to proceed to the next step. Malwarebytes for Android will now ask for a set of permissions that are required to scan your device and protect it from malware. Tap on “Give permission” to continue. Tap on “Allow” to permit Malwarebytes to access the files on your phone.
Update database and run a scan with Malwarebytes for Android
You will now be prompted to update the Malwarebytes database and run a full system scan.
Click on “Update database” to update the Malwarebytes for Android definitions to the latest version, then click on “Run full scan” to perform a system scan.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will now start scanning your phone for adware and other malicious apps. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Click on “Remove Selected”.
When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes for Android has detected. To remove the malicious apps that Malwarebytes has found, tap on the “Remove Selected” button.
Restart your phone.
Malwarebytes for Android will now remove all the malicious apps that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your device.
When the scan is finished, remove all detected threats. Your Android phone should now be free of malicious apps, adware, and unwanted browser redirects.
If your current antivirus allowed a malicious app on your phone, you may want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your phone after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:
Restore your phone to factory settings by going to Settings > General management > Reset > Factory data reset.
After cleaning your device, it’s important to protect it from future infections and annoying pop-ups. We recommend installing an ad blocker such as AdGuard. AdGuard blocks malicious ads, prevents phishing attempts, and stops dangerous redirects, helping you stay safe while browsing online.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I know if a Facebook “Security Alert” is a scam?
If the message uses urgent language, demands immediate action, contains unfamiliar links, or claims your page will be deleted within 24 hours unless you appeal, it’s likely a scam. Always check the sender’s identity and avoid clicking on suspicious links.
Does Meta ever send messages through Facebook comments or Messenger?
No. Meta does not use Facebook comments or direct messages to communicate security issues. All official notifications will appear in your Facebook Support Inbox or via email from a verified Meta domain.
What happens if I click on the scam link?
Clicking the link typically leads to a fake login page that looks like Facebook. Entering your credentials there gives scammers access to your account, allowing them to lock you out, rename your page, and use it for malicious purposes.
Can scammers access my payment information through this scam?
If your account is linked to Facebook Ads or Business Manager and you’ve entered your credentials into a phishing site, scammers may gain access to your ad accounts and run fraudulent campaigns using your saved payment methods.
How fast do scammers act once they gain access?
Very quickly. They often change your recovery settings, remove admins, rename your page, and begin posting or advertising scams within minutes.
Is it possible to recover my page after it’s been hacked?
Yes, but recovery can be time-consuming. Acting fast increases your chances. Use Facebook’s Hacked Account portal and contact Meta Business Support with proof of ownership and identity.
What should I do if I accidentally gave my information to scammers?
Immediately change your Facebook password, enable two-factor authentication, report the incident to Facebook, and secure all connected accounts. Scan your device for malware and notify your followers that your page was compromised.
How can I protect my page from this happening again?
Enable two-factor authentication
Never click links from unverified sources
Educate your team on phishing tactics
Monitor page activity regularly
Use a strong, unique password
Are there tools to verify if a link is legitimate?
Yes. Services like Google Safe Browsing, VirusTotal, or checking for HTTPS and domain authenticity can help determine if a URL is trustworthy. However, always navigate to Facebook support directly rather than clicking links in messages.
Why do scammers want to hijack Facebook pages?
Stolen pages provide instant access to a large audience, which can be exploited to spread more scams, run fraudulent ads, or sell the page on black market forums. They can also use your reputation to make their scams appear more credible.
The Bottom Line
The “URGENT SECURITY ALERT” Facebook scam is a sophisticated phishing campaign that leverages fear, urgency, and deceptive design to steal login credentials from unsuspecting page owners. Its damage can be severe, leading to lost pages, stolen funds, and reputational harm.
Understanding the threat is the first step in protecting yourself. Never click on links from unverified sources, and always confirm urgent messages through Meta’s official support channels. If you fall victim, act immediately and take comprehensive steps to secure your account and limit damage.
Awareness, swift action, and continuous education are the best weapons against social engineering scams. Stay cautious, stay informed, and never let urgency override your judgment.
Thomas is an expert at uncovering scams and providing in-depth reporting on cyber threats and online fraud. As an editor, he is dedicated to keeping readers informed on the latest developments in cybersecurity and tech.
