In the digital age, social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter have revolutionized the way we connect, with nearly 30 million active users across Canada alone. These platforms allow us to communicate instantly, share our lives, and stay informed. However, while they bring people closer together, they also bring scammers closer to us.
As we enter the third week of National Fraud Prevention Month, the focus turns to cyber security and how to protect yourself from the dangers of everyday digital practices. With cyber criminals lurking in the shadows of social media, it’s crucial to be aware of the risks and take steps to safeguard your online information.
What Are the Risks of Using Social Media?
Identity Theft: Your personal information and identity could be stolen by cyber criminals who use it to make fraudulent purchases or engage in other illegal activities under your name.
Physical Security: Depending on the information you share, such as your whereabouts, it could tip off burglars looking for empty homes and easy targets.
Phishing: Adding friends or followers you don’t know could invite scammers into your network, giving them access to your personal information.
Hacking: Hackers could gain access to your social media profiles and pose as you, sending out spam and malware to your friends and contacts.
“Identity theft and phishing aren’t new scams, but the tricks that scammers use to lure their victims are constantly evolving,” says Sandra Crozier-McKee, president and CEO of BBB Serving Southern Alberta and East Kootenay. “Social media has become a regular part of everyday life, so people think nothing of ‘Liking’ or sharing posts. It’s crucial for consumers to understand the responsibility that comes with using social media and educate themselves about the risks of misuse.”
Popular Social Media Scams to Watch Out For
Fake Friend Requests: Scammers can send you friend requests from fake profiles. Once accepted, they gain access to your information and can impersonate you by creating a new account with your photos, interests, and status updates.
Like Farming: These scams solicit “Likes” and shares on heartwarming or shocking images to gain popularity. However, scammers may use these “Liked” pages or posts to access your information for identity theft.
Viral Videos: Scammers can embed viruses in videos that appear to be trending. Clicking on these videos may prompt you to update your video player, but instead, you could end up downloading malware.
Hidden URLs: Shortened URLs on platforms like Twitter can hide malicious links that install malware on your computer. Always hover over the link to see its true destination before clicking.
Gossip and Scandals: Scammers create fake news stories or scandalous celebrity photos to attract clicks. Clicking on these could lead to malware downloads or prompt you to give out personal information.
Hidden Charges: Quizzes or fun apps that ask for your phone number may result in unexpected charges on your mobile bill. These “free” services often come with hidden subscription fees.
Free Giveaways and Sweepstakes: Scammers lure victims with promises of free trips, luxury cars, or large cash prizes, but ask for a payment or personal information to claim the prize. Never wire money to claim a prize.
Condolence Scams: Messages claiming to be from a family member or friend in need of help, or notifications of an inheritance, could be scams asking you to wire money.
Chain Letters: Posts claiming to offer rewards for copying and pasting a status are often hoaxes or spam. Break the chain and inform others about the likely scam.
Phishing Emails: Emails that appear to be from social media platforms, addressing you by name, might ask you to click on a link or provide personal information. These could be phishing attempts to steal your data.
Protect Yourself Online
As the digital world continues to evolve, so do the methods used by cyber criminals. By staying informed and vigilant, you can protect yourself from falling victim to these scams. Always verify friend requests, be cautious with what you click, and think twice before sharing personal information online.
If something seems suspicious, it probably is. Stay safe online and help spread awareness to protect others from falling victim to social media scams.
