Don’t Fall for Viral Copyright Scam Warnings on Facebook
Written by: Stelian Pilici
Published on:
Have you ever gotten a message on Facebook warning you about copyright violations or threatening to shut down your account? These types of messages are likely scams trying to steal your login details. Read on to learn more about how these Facebook copyright scams work and how to protect yourself.
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Scam Overview
Copyright infringement scams on Facebook involve messages warning users that their accounts face suspension due to copyright violations. These messages claim to be from Facebook’s legal department or copyright team.
They state that someone has reported copyright infringement on the user’s Facebook posts, photos, or videos. The messages threaten account suspension within a short timeframe, usually 24-48 hours, if the alleged violations are not resolved.
A link is provided to supposedly appeal the violation allegations. However, the link goes to a fake Facebook login page controlled by scammers. When users try to login, their credentials are stolen.
These scam messages aim to panic recipients into thinking their access to Facebook is at risk. By making the warnings seem time-sensitive, the scammers pressure users to click the link and hand over their login details without proper scrutiny.
Once scammers gain access to an account, they can post dangerous or illegal content, message friends to spread the scam further, access personal information, make purchases with saved payment details, and anything else the legitimate account holder could do.
The scam messages come via Facebook Messenger or email. They contain legal threats and other intimidating language. The scam website URLs also appear legitimate at first glance. But small inconsistencies reveal their fraudulent nature.
This scam exploits people’s fear of legal repercussions and losing their social media presence. Staying calm and identifying red flags can help users recognize and report the scam instead of falling victim. Basic security steps also go a long way in keeping accounts safe.
How the Scam Works
Copyright infringement scams start with an unexpected message claiming Facebook received a complaint about copyright violations on your profile. The initial message states:
From: Facebook Copyright Infringement Team
Subject: Copyright Violation Warning on Facebook Account
Dear [Your Name],
We have received multiple DMCA copyright infringement claims regarding posts and images on your Facebook account.
The DMCA or Digital Millennium Copyright Act is a real law, so mentioning it lends legitimacy. But in reality, no such claims were filed.
The message goes on to specify that certain posts, photos, or videos you shared allegedly violate someone’s copyrights. However, the details remain vague:
The claimant states that you do not have rights or permission to publicly share this copyrighted content on your timeline and across Facebook.
Making it seem like direct allegations were made against your specific posts adds credibility. But the messages remain generic with no exact details.
Next, the message demands urgent action, saying:
As per Facebook’s content and intellectual property policies, we must immediately remove the infringing materials from your account. If no action is taken within 48 hours, we will be forced to permanently disable your account and delete the infringing content.
A short deadline ratchets up urgency and pressure on the recipient. The aim is to panic users into taking hasty action before thoroughly thinking things through.
Finally, a link is provided supposedly to deal with the allegations:
To file a counter-notice or dispute this warning, please visit our Facebook Copyright Portal here:
The professional looking link and domain incorporating Facebook’s name adds perceived legitimacy. However, it goes to a fake login page operated by scammers.
When users click the link, they are taken to a nearly identical copy of Facebook’s real login page. The design, text, images, and URL at a glance look convincingly like Facebook:
If users enter their username and password, the scammers capture their credentials and gain full access to their account. The fake login redirects to Facebook’s genuine homepage to hide the scam.
Once scammers access an account, they can:
Post Dangerous Content – Share offensive, illegal, or dangerous content in the victim’s name that could get them into trouble.
Message Friends – Reach out to the victim’s friends list to spread the scam further.
Access Private Data – View or steal personal info, messages, photos or videos to exploit or sell online.
Post Scam Ads – Share fake ads for shady investment, romance or other scams, profiting off clicks.
Make Purchases – Use saved payment methods to make fraudulent purchases on and off Facebook.
These messages play on people’s fear of legal consequences from copyright complaints and losing access to their social media presence. But staying calm and noticing red flags can prevent falling victim.
How to Spot This Scam
While copyright infringement scams may seem real at first glance, there are usually red flags that reveal their fraudulent nature:
Generic Claims – The messages remain vague with no details about the alleged infringements. Real complaints specify exactly which content violated copyrights.
Urgent Threats – Scare tactics like short suspension deadlines pressure recipients to act hastily without thinking. Facebook’s real process allows time to resolve issues.
Spelling/Grammar Errors – Look for mistakes, awkward phrases, or other indicators the message was not written professionally.
False Sender Details – The messages pretend to be from Facebook teams that don’t really exist like “Copyright Infringement Department”.
Deceptive Links – The scam links incorporate Facebook’s name but lead to unrelated sites. Hover over links to preview destinations.
Fake Login Pages – Fake pages mimic Facebook precisely but have subtle inconsistencies upon close inspection.
No Official Notifications – Real copyright notices would also appear as alerts on your Facebook account from verified Pages.
Money Requests – Scammers sometimes request payment via gift cards to supposedly “resolve” fake violations.
Repeat Messages – Getting the same message multiple times indicates a bulk scam campaign rather than real complaint.
Staying vigilant for these types of suspicious characteristics helps protect against falling for copyright scams on Facebook or other platforms. When in doubt, reach out to Facebook directly through official channels to verify any warnings.
What to do if you have fallen victim
If you entered your Facebook login details on a scam website and your account is compromised, take these steps immediately:
Reset your password
First, change your Facebook password to log the scammers out. Select a new strong password and enable two-factor authentication for extra security.
Review account activity
Check your recent posts, messages, payments, and ads for any unauthorized changes. Delete any scam/offensive posts made in your name and apologize to friends.
Run antivirus scans
Scan all your devices with Malwarebytes in case malware was installed allowing remote access. Update your antivirus software and restart your device after scanning.
Enable login approvals
Turn on login approvals under Facebook settings, requiring extra confirmation via codes or prompts when logging in from new devices.
Warn your friends
Message your friends explaining your account was compromised in case the scammers reached out to them already. Tell them to ignore suspicious messages.
Report to Facebook
Report the scam message, fake website, and account misuse to Facebook. Provide as many details as possible to aid investigation.
Monitor account activity
Keep a close eye on your account for suspicious posts, messages, and new friend requests in the weeks following the scam. Report any concerns immediately.
Change other passwords
Reset the passwords for your email, bank accounts, and any other websites where you used the same password. Enable two-factor authentication wherever possible.
Run security checks
Scan devices for new malware just in case. Also check for unknown extensions or software that could be spying on your activity and sending info to scammers.
Taking quick, decisive action minimizes the potential damage from credential theft. But ongoing vigilance remains essential in protecting all your online accounts.
Is Your Device Infected? Check for Malware
If your device is running slowly or acting suspicious, it may be infected with malware. Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free is a great option for scanning your device and detecting potential malware or viruses. The free version can efficiently check for and remove many common infections.
Malwarebytes can run on Windows, Mac, and Android devices. Depending on which operating system is installed on the device you’re trying to run a Malwarebytes scan, please click on the tab below and follow the displayed steps.
Malwarebytes For WindowsMalwarebytes For MacMalwarebytes For Android
Scan your computer with Malwarebytes for Windows to remove malware
Malwarebytes is one of the most popular and most used anti-malware software for Windows, and for good reasons. It is able to destroy many types of malware that other software tends to miss, without costing you absolutely nothing. 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 Windows.
You can download Malwarebytes by clicking the link below.
When Malwarebytes has finished downloading, double-click on the MBSetup file to install Malwarebytes on your computer. In most cases, downloaded files are saved to the Downloads folder.
You may be presented with a User Account Control pop-up asking if you want to allow Malwarebytes to make changes to your device. If this happens, you should click “Yes” to continue with the Malwarebytes installation.
Follow the on-screen prompts to install Malwarebytes.
When the Malwarebytes installation begins, you will see the Malwarebytes setup wizard which will guide you through the installation process. The Malwarebytes installer will first ask you what type of computer are you installing this program on, click either Personal Computer or Work Computer.
On the next screen, click “Install” to install Malwarebytes on your computer.
When your Malwarebytes installation completes, the program opens the Welcome to Malwarebytes screen.
Click on “Scan”.
Malwarebytes is now installed on your computer, to start a scan click on the “Scan” button. Malwarebytes will automatically update the antivirus database and start 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 on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Click on “Quarantine”.
When the Malwarebytes scan is finished scanning it will show a screen that displays any malware, adware, or potentially unwanted programs that it has detected. To remove the adware and other malicious programs that Malwarebytes has found, click on the “Quarantine” button.
Restart computer.
Malwarebytes will now remove all the malicious files and registry keys that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your computer.
Your computer should now be free of trojans, adware, browser hijackers, 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:
Scan your computer with Malwarebytes for Mac to remove malware
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.
Your Mac should now be free of adware, browser hijackers, and other malware.
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.
Scan your phone with Malwarebytes for Android to remove malware
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.
Your phone should now be free of adware, browser hijackers, and other malware.
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.
The messages come via Facebook Messenger or email. They may seem to be from Facebook support, legal, or copyright teams but are not legitimate.
Do I have to click the link to be at risk?
No, the main risk comes if you enter your Facebook login credentials on the scam website. Avoid clicking the links altogether.
What happens if I login on the fake page?
The scammers capture your username and password and gain full access to your Facebook account and data.
Can the scammers post on my profile?
Yes, scammers can make posts in your name once logged into your account, potentially containing dangerous or illegal content.
What private data can the scammers access?
Scammers can view all your posts, photos, personal info, messages, and linked payment methods if you save them to Facebook.
Should I pay any requested fines?
No, any requests for payment via gift card or money transfer are always a sign of a scam. Legitimate Facebook notices would never demand direct payment.
How do I get my account back from scammers?
If you still have access, change your password. If locked out, report to Facebook to potentially recover your account by proving ownership.
How can I stay safe from this scam?
Never login or share your password when prompted on an external website. Enable login approvals and use unique passwords for all accounts.
What should I do if I fell for the scam?
Reset your password immediately and review your account activity for unauthorized changes. Report the scam to Facebook. Warn your friends not to open suspicious messages.
Conclusion
Copyright infringement scams on Facebook threaten users’ security and privacy. While the messages appear worrisome, closer inspection reveals inconsistencies that expose their fraudulent nature.
When facing suspicious copyright violation warnings, remain calm. Do not click any links or provide personal information. Report the messages to Facebook for removal.
With proper awareness and vigilance, Facebook users can keep their accounts safe from compromise. Never enter your Facebook password into an external website or provide it upon an unsolicited request.
If you got tricked and your account was misused, take immediate steps to lock out scammers and undo unauthorized changes. Warn your friends, reset passwords, enable enhanced login security, and monitor things closely in the weeks ahead.
By implementing strong passwords, two-factor authentication, antivirus software and other basic security measures, social media users can protect their online presence from being exploited by scammers for financial gain or illegal activity.
How to Stay Safe Online
Here are 10 basic security tips to help you avoid malware and protect your device:
Use a good antivirus and keep it up-to-date.
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.
Keep software and operating systems up-to-date.
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.
Be careful when installing programs and apps.
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."
Install an 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.
Be careful what you download.
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.
Be alert for people trying to trick you.
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.
Back up your data.
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.
Choose strong passwords.
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.
Be careful where you click.
Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. These could potentially contain malware or phishing scams.
Don't use pirated software.
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.
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Meet Stelian Pilici
Stelian leverages over a decade of cybersecurity expertise to lead malware analysis and removal, uncover scams, and educate people. His experience provides insightful analysis and valuable perspective.
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