Scam Signature Message: Facebook Update: Reactivate your Account NOW!

Scam Type: Survey Scam – Rogue Application

Trending: January 2011

Why it’s a Scam:

Once you click on the Wall Post link, you are taken to the following page and asked to install the “Verification Required! Reactivate Account Now” Facebook application:

If you do agree to install the application, you must agree to give the application developer full access to your basic information, post to your wall, access your data at any time and manage your pages. This application is more intrusive than most, and should definitely not be installed. Granting them this access allows the scammer to spam their message on your News Feed. 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:

By now, you should be very aware that something isn’t quite right. Why would Facebook make you complete a survey before verifying your account? And it really doesn’t make much sense that a survey is a new way to increase Facebook Security, huh? Sadly, many people blindly complete these scams, and each time they do – a scammer gets a payday. Also, if you choose to play Frogger instead of completing a scam, you will likely download a virus or some other malware and infect your system. Don’t fall for tricks like this. Facebook will never ask for your password.

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 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 be kept informed of the latest security issues. Also check out:

Your Ultimate Guide to Facebook Scams and How to Deal with Them