Scam Signature Message: This reporter had a stroke on live tv while reporting the Grammy Awards! or – Omg this reported had a stroke on live tv check it out

Scam Type: Survey Scam – Rogue Application

Trending: February 2011

Why it’s a Scam:

Once you click on the Wall Post link, you are taken to the following page:

When you click “HERE,” you are taken to a screen that asks you to install the “Serene Branson Stroke” Facebook application:

If you agree to install the application, you must agree to give the application developer the right to: access to your basic information, post to your wall and access your data at any time. By doing this, you are giving the scammer permission to spam their message to all of your friends. 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 will then be taken to the following screen:

If you click “HERE” to continue, you are presented with the following survey scam:

The scammer’s end game is to get you to complete surveys or download games to your computer. Each time someone completes a survey, they get paid. These downloads often contain viruses, trojans or other malware. Don’t compromise your privacy and security, and don’t spam your friends with these bogus apps.

How to Deal with the Scam:

If you did make the mistake of installing the application and spammed the link your friends, you should clean-up your newsfeed and profile to remove references to the application. You also need to access your privacy settings and remove the application.

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 charges 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

How to spot a Facebook Survey Scam