Watch Out for the Top 10 Facebook Scams Targeting You Now
Written by: Stelian Pilici
Published on:
With over 2.9 billion monthly active users, Facebook has become an integral part of everyday life for people around the world. However, the platform’s massive reach also attracts scammers running an array of fraudulent schemes aimed at taking advantage of unsuspecting users.
This comprehensive guide will provide an in-depth look at the most prevalent Facebook scams reported to be circulating currently, how they work, and expert advice to help you identify and avoid falling victim. Being aware of the latest techniques fraudsters use can help you keep your account, data, and money protected.
This Article Contains:
An Overview of Scamming on Facebook
As a primarily text and image-based platform, scammers have found Facebook to be a playground for executing various forms of deception. Some of the most common scam tactics seen include:
Phishing – Scammers send links via posts, comments and messages leading to fake login pages designed to harvest users’ Facebook credentials once entered. Account credentials are stolen for takeovers.
Fake Profiles – Scammers create fake accounts impersonating real people, brands and organizations to appear legitimate and interact with victims. Used to spread phishing links, malware, and manipulate users.
Romance Scams – Fraudsters manipulate victims by forming online relationships through fake profiles and eventually asking for money for supposed personal emergencies and hardships.
Tech Support Scams – Scammers advertise tech support services and claim your computer is infected with malware that they can remove by gaining remote access. Allows them to install actual viruses and spyware.
Fake News Spreads – Made up sensational news stories containing malicious links are shared to infect viewers’ devices with viruses, trojans, and malware that then steal data.
Predatory Shopping – Scammy brands overpromise benefits and use pressure tactics to sell questionable products, services, and business opportunities through Facebook ads and posts.
While Facebook employs advanced technologies like AI to detect and shut down billions of fake accounts every year, new scam tactics are constantly emerging. Exercising skepticism rather than trusting unfamiliar profiles and advertisements can go a long way in helping users steer clear of Facebook cons.
Breaking Down the Top 10 Facebook Scams
Let’s examine the most prevalent Facebook scams that all users should be aware of to help detect and stop them.
1. Phishing Scams
Phishing scams aim to steal Facebook users’ account credentials through deception. This is accomplished by sending links via Facebook messages, posts, comments or even email.
The messages typically claim the user must urgently verify or reactivate their account to avoid deletion due to suspicious activity detected. However, the link actually leads to a sophisticated phishing site mimicking Facebook’s login page.
If users enter their username and password, the credentials get stolen and the account gets hijacked. The scammer then has full access to the victim’s profile and friend connections.
How to Spot This Scam
Urgent threats of account or page deletion if action not taken immediately.
Suspicious links to odd URLs rather than Facebook.com.
Messages originating from accounts you don’t know or have no friends/posts.
How to Avoid It
Disregard any messages about account verification or compromises. Facebook will never message you this way.
Enable login approvals for account security.
Type Facebook.com directly into your browser. Don’t enter credentials on unfamiliar sites.
2. Fake Profile Friending
Scammers create Facebook profiles using fake names and stolen photos pretending to be attractive strangers interested in connecting. After victims accept their friend requests, they gain access to timelines and connections.
This allows them to post spam links and advertisements, spread malicious links infecting viewers’ devices, message friends with their own phishing attempts, and steal personal info visible on the profile.
How to Spot This Scam
Sparse details in profile sections and few posts/friends.
Appearance of fake celebrity crushes or pictures with exotic cars in the profile.
Newly created accounts friending random people.
How to Avoid It
Don’t accept friend requests from profiles you don’t already know personally.
Check carefully that new friend profiles have identifiable personal details, posts, and existing connections.
Limit profile visibility settings so only friends can view posts and info.
3. Fake Account Verification
Similar to phishing scams, messages will appear to come from Facebook itself stating that the recipient must verify or activate their account immediately or risk deletion.
A link is provided to supposedly fix the issue, but it leads to a fake login page designed to steal Facebook credentials once entered. With username and password in hand, the scammer gains full access to the victim’s account.
How to Spot This Scam
Warnings of urgent account deletion if action not taken quickly.
Links go to odd URL domains rather than Facebook.com.
Messages sent from accounts unconnected to recipient.
How to Avoid It
Facebook does not message users out of the blue regarding account issues. Disregard these messages.
Login directly through Facebook.com or app rather than using links sent to you.
Use strong unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication.
4. Tech Support Scams
Tech support scammers post advertisements on Facebook promoting dubious computer repair services. The ads claim that malware or viruses have been detected on your device. They provide “support” numbers to call for immediate removal assistance.
Once called, the scammers instruct you to install remote software giving them control over your computer. From here, they can install actual viruses, steal personal data, and charge exorbitant fees for unnecessary services.
How to Spot This Scam
Ads using alarming language about malware infecting your device.
Claims that your computer’s IP address was identified as being at risk.
Demands for fast action before all data is lost.
How to Avoid It
Don’t call random numbers advertising tech support services on Facebook.
Never provide remote access to your device or install software at a stranger’s direction.
Hang up and if you suspect a real virus, take your device to a reputable local tech shop.
5. Romance Scams
Scammers create fake profiles and befriend you acting as romantic interests to eventually manipulate victims into providing money. These “romance scammers” build affections through flirty messaging before inventing supposed emergencies.
Sob stories involving accidents, family deaths, travel troubles, and medical issues are combined with desperate pleas for monetary assistance. Victims feel compelled to help someone they care for without realizing the profiles and emergencies are completely fabricated by scammers for financial gain.
How to Spot This Scam
Rapid escalation of intimacy without meeting, including discussions of future plans.
Vague answers when asked for personal details or reluctance to video chat.
Requests for financial assistance without being able to provide documentation of the emergency.
How to Avoid It
Never send money to someone you met on Facebook but haven’t interacted with extensively in person.
Conduct reverse image searches on profile pictures to uncover fakes.
Put brakes on any budding online relationship where they refuse to video chat or meet soon after connecting.
6. Fake News and Viral Hoax Spreading
Scammers and click farms orchestrate intentionally fake viral stories, news reports, controversial videos, election conspiracies and health misinformation containing embedded links. They aim for the shocking material to be widely shared across Facebook feeds.
When users click the links, they unknowingly download viruses, trojans, spyware, ransomware, and other malicious software that then infects their device and steals passwords, banking details, and other sensitive data if not caught by virus protection.
How to Spot This Scam
Sensationalized headlines designed to spark strong emotional reactions and urgency.
Links embedded directly in posts rather than article excerpts with linked titles.
Sources are unfamiliar sites rather than reputable news publishers.
How to Avoid It
Don’t interact with sensationalized or emotionally-charged posts from unknown people or pages.
Hover over links to inspect destination domains before clicking. Avoid unfamiliar sites.
Get your news directly from reputable mainstream sources rather than viral social posts.
7. Fake Charity Solicitations
Scammers take advantage of charitable impulses by creating fake fundraiser pages after natural disasters, family tragedies, or health scares. Touching backstories aim to solicit donations from unsuspecting Good Samaritans.
However, funds donated go straight into the scammer’s pockets rather than any real medical procedures, funeral expenses, or victim relief efforts. All evidence of the fundraiser vanishes once sufficient funds are collected.
How to Spot This Scam
Pages and accounts lack much of an established history.
Beneficiary photos seem stock or are hard to verify.
Donations requested via non-traditional methods like gift cards or crypto.
How to Avoid It
Vet fundraisers carefully through charity watchdog sites before donating to guarantee legitimacy.
Avoid donating to newly created, unverified pages with uncorroborated stories.
Stick to reputable aid organizations if donating in response to recent tragedies.
8. Fake Shopping Websites
Scammers set up e-commerce websites with bargain prices for luxury goods, popular products, and gift cards. They advertise these fake shops through Facebook ads and posts to drive traffic.
However, orders placed never arrive since scammers pocket the payments and use tracking numbers from other shipments. Any items received are cheap counterfeits rather than real products. The fake sites vanish once enough victims paid.
How to Spot This Scam
Products sold much cheaper than market rates at reputable sellers.
Website appears hastily built with no evidence of real business operations.
Lack of identifiable business information and contact details.
How to Avoid It
Verify unfamiliar online retailers through reviews and complaint filings indicating potential scams.
Check site trust symbols like BBB accreditation and SSL secure URLs before purchasing.
Stick to recognizable online and local retailers rather than Facebook-advertised shops.
9. Multilevel Marketing Scams
Multilevel marketing companies recruit Facebook users promoting fantastic opportunities to earn massive income through direct sales commissions. However, the business structure is designed so very few participants actually profit after accounting for required personal inventory purchases and recruitment efforts.
The income claims serve as bait to get you paying enrollment fees, forced product buys, and aggressive recruiting of additional participants needed to advance through the pyramid structure before making commissions.
How to Spot This Scam
Ad blindness – Vague about the actual products sold and overall business model specifics.
Emphasis on “getting in first” and recruiting others rather than real customer demand driving success.
Promises of lavish lifestyles and incomes as long as you recruit more affiliates.
How to Avoid It
Be skeptical of friends pitching business ventures through social media. Income claims are likely exaggerated.
Research MLMs thoroughly – many have low income disclosures showing most participants lose money.
Don’t pay registration fees or order products until vetting the company’s compensation structure.
10. Facebook Live Scams
Scammers conduct live video broadcasts where they claim to be giving away big prizes like gift cards, electronics, or cash. To enter, you must first send a small “redemption fee” to an account.
After collecting fees from thousands misled by the broadcast, they quickly end the stream without sending any winnings. Victims have no way to get their money back since it’s impossible to trace where funds were sent.
How to Spot This Scam
Contests requiring an upfront free before determining winners.
Prizes promoted are expensive items like the latest iPhones.
Broadcasts end abruptly after short periods rather than running fair contests.
How to Avoid It
Legitimate giveaways don’t require payment or fees before prizes are awarded.
Research the account running the giveaway broadcast beforehand for negative reports.
Report live videos promoting potential scams while they’re occurring to get them taken down faster.
What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed on Facebook
If you unfortunately fell victim to a Facebook scam that resulted in your account being compromised or monetary losses, here are important steps to take:
Secure Your Account
If you entered your Facebook credentials on a phishing site, change your password immediately. Enable two-factor authentication requiring a login code for added security against repeat compromise.
Review connected apps in your settings and remove any you don’t recognize giving third-party account access. Monitor your profile closely for unauthorized posts made by scammers.
Report Compromised Accounts
Use Facebook’s reporting process to flag compromised accounts posting inappropriate content after being stolen. You can also submit appeals to try recovering your own hacked account through Facebook’s help center.
Provide proof of original ownership through email addresses used to open the account, old passwords, photos only you would have, etc. This can help restore access from scammer lockouts.
Contact Banks About Fraudulent Charges
If any financial information was given to scammers who misused it for purchases or transfers, call your bank and credit card companies immediately. Report the charges as fraud so they can be reversed.
Cancel any cards that may be compromised and change online account passwords scammers could have accessed. Sign up for transaction monitoring to catch future fraud quickly through account alerts.
Report Fake Profiles
Find the fraudulent Facebook profiles used in romance or phishing scams and report them using the report button on the account. Give details on the nature of the scam being run if known. This can get them removed faster.
Spread Warnings About Known Scams
Post warnings about specific Facebook scams you encountered to make connections aware of fraudulent accounts, posts, and advertisements. This helps alert others of what to look out for and not fall for themselves.
Consult Law Enforcement
File detailed fraud reports through the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center or your local law enforcement for large scam losses. Provide all available evidence like screenshots of conversations and transaction details.
Legal action may be possible depending on the losses and identifiable information collected about the scammer. Lawyers can assist with navigating court claims, lawsuits, and asset seizure.
Avoiding Facebook Scams
Stay vigilant when communicating on Facebook and be cautious before clicking strange links, making purchases, or sending money. Here are some best practices to follow:
Review privacy settings to limit your profile visibility to friends only.
Don’t accept friend requests or engage with accounts with no clear personal details or profile history.
Verify unfamiliar profiles through mutual connections and public records searches before befriending.
Disable automated birthday wishes and timeline posts to provide less data to scammers.
Don’t discuss financial information or make purchases through Facebook communications.
Never provide account login credentials or personal information through unsolicited messages or emails.
Use strong complex passwords unique to Facebook and enable two-factor authentication.
How to Identify Facebook Scams
While scammers are constantly evolving their tactics on Facebook, there are some common signs that can help users spot fraudulent accounts and activity:
Look for Verification Status
Legitimate public figures, businesses, brands, and media companies have blue verification checkmarks on their official Facebook pages. Lack of a verification badge on an account impersonating a real entity should raise suspicions.
Assess Friends and Followers
Scam accounts often show inflated friend/follower numbers achieved through bots and purchased fake connections. But look for signs that friends are real accounts with profile photos, posts, and genuine engagement.
Check Account Age and History
Fraudulent accounts are often recently created with sparse posting history and details. Frequent account restarts after being reported is also a red flag.
Analyze Message Language
Messages creating urgency, guaranteeing rewards, threatening account deletion, or requesting sensitive information right away are red flags of scams.
Inspect External Links
Hover over links in posts and messages to reveal the actual destination URL. Scammers use URL shorteners and redirects to hide sketchy destinations. Avoid clicking links to unfamiliar sites.
Search for Scam Warnings
Search the web for any claims made in Facebook ads or by accounts contacting you. You may find reports exposing related scams to avoid.
Staying alert for these signs of suspicious Facebook activity can prevent you from getting ensnared in cons aiming to steal your money or personal data. Verify legitimacy before clicking, sharing, or providing sensitive information.
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.
How can I tell if a Facebook account contacting me is fake or a scam?
Warning signs include sparse profiles without many posts/friends, account ages under a year, unclear origins of any photos used, messages creating urgency, poor English, and requests for sensitive personal information.
What should I do if someone is impersonating me on Facebook?
Report the impersonating profile to Facebook. Provide proof you are the real person being imitated through documentation. Change your profile name to say “Official” or “Authentic” to differentiate from fakes.
Is it safe to purchase products advertised on Facebook?
It’s risky unless the seller has a blue verification badge and established online presence. Vet unfamiliar sellers thoroughly through reviews before purchasing expensive items advertised on Facebook. Stick to reputable retailers.
Should I click on links sent to me on Facebook?
It’s best not to click direct links sent in messages, posts, or comments from people/pages you don’t know well. Hover over links to inspect destinations first. Navigate to sites manually when possible rather than using redirects.
How do I avoid getting scammed by a fake fundraiser or charity page?
Don’t donate to any fundraisers by individuals or pages you can’t independently verify as legitimate organizations through charity vetting sites like Charity Navigator. Only give to well-known charities.
What steps should I take if my Facebook account is hacked?
Immediately change your password and enable two-factor authentication. Remove any unknown connected apps or accounts. Report the compromise to Facebook. Also update passwords anywhere else you reused the same one.
How can I tell if a giveaway, contest, or prize drawing is a scam?
Real giveaways won’t require upfront fees to enter or claim winnings, or any sensitive personal details. Entering contests by pages lacking verification badges and large legitimate follower bases carries risk.
Are Facebook ads legitimate business opportunities?
It’s risky to pay registration fees or invest in opportunities advertised on Facebook without thoroughly vetting the company first through independent research. Most are overhyped, scams, or have hidden financial pitfalls.
How do I report a Facebook scam?
Use the report option on profiles, pages, groups, Marketplace listings, or ads that appear suspicious or have scammed people. Give details to explain the fraudulent activity occurring.
Can I get my money back if I’m scammed on Facebook?
It’s very difficult. Contact banks immediately to potentially reverse fraudulent charges made. Police reports and legal action may help for large losses, but funds sent willingly are rarely recoverable. Avoid sending money to strangers.
Stay skeptical of sketchy accounts, ads, posts, and messages on Facebook. Report suspicious activities immediately before more get scammed. Your vigilance will help protect yourself and others.
Conclusion
As one of the world’s most popular social media networks, Facebook unfortunately attracts vast numbers of criminal accounts engaging in deceptive tactics like phishing, fake profiles, tech support scams, romance cons, fraudulent shopping sites, and hoax news spreading.
This guide provided an overview of the top 10 Facebook scams to be aware of when using the platform. This includes phishing schemes, fake account friending, tech support cons, romance scammers, fake fundraising pages, shopping website traps, multilevel marketing ploys, viral hoax spreading, Facebook Live gift card scams, and more.
Knowing what red flags to watch for, proceeding with skepticism rather than blind trust, and being cautious before clicking or sharing questionable content is key to protecting your account and information.
Report any suspicious activity directly to Facebook so malicious accounts can be disabled quickly. Share this article to spread awareness to your connections about current Facebook scams lurking. Stay vigilant in assessing risks when interacting with unfamiliar accounts or pages.
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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