Scam Signature Message: OMG This girl got jailed 2 years for posting this status update!
Scam Type: Fake Public Event – Survey Scam – Rogue Application – Like Jacking
Trending: December 2010
Why it’s a Scam:
Once you click on the Wall Post link, you are taken to the following fake Public Event page:
This is the main screen for the fake Public Event. Clicking the link to “See the status she posted here ===>” takes you to the following page:
When you click “Continue”, you are taken to a Facebook screen that asks if you want to install the “Jail Status” application. The scammers have really gone the extra mile here in making the application look professional and legit. The “Facebook Verified app” button and the high rating could be enough to fool the casual Facebook user.
If you agree to install the application, you must agree to give the application developer full access to your basic information and the right to email you, post to your wall, access your data at any time and the right to manage your pages. You should never give a third party application this much access unless you are 100% sure of their intentions and authenticity. If you do proceed with the application install, you are taken to the following screen:
How to Deal with the Scam:
If you did make the mistake of installing the application and passing the link onto your friends, you should clean-up your newsfeed and profile to remove references to the application (click the “x” in the top right hand corner of the post).You also need to access your privacy settings and remove the application from your list of approved Facebook applications. (Account/ Privacy Settings/ Applications and Websites.)
If you made the mistake of submitting your cell phone number for any of the surveys, then you should contact your carrier immediately to keep any bogus charging from appearing.
If you or your Facebook friends are falling for tricks like this, it’s time to get yourself informed of the latest threats. Be sure to join the Facecrooks page on Facebook to stay informed of the latest security issues. Also check out:
Your Ultimate Guide to Facebook Scams and How to Deal with Them