Fake links, offering better-than-true deals, have left many vulnerable to the latest phishing scam on Facebook.
The old adage reins true when considering deals on the internet that seem better than possible.
Recently, a phishing scam was detected in the form of a fake Qantas Facebook page which promised users a “$1,500 Qantas voucher to fly anywhere in Australia.”
The deal, according to the page, was in honour of the airline seating 20 million customers on Qantas carriers since 2013.
The page, that seems to have since been removed, would then prompt users to click on links and fill out surveys which were rife with malicious malware designed to hijack a user’s personal profile, extract their information, or completely take over their computer.
Such scams are very common on the internet and, much like the e mail exchanges of yore, have many who unfortunately fall for the premise of winning big by employing little effort.
To those that have potentially exchanged their information on the fraudulent links, the ‘Blacklist’, a website that names and shames such fraudulent behaviour, has advised that the first thing to do is to change your password and log out of every device when prompted to.
“If you have provided your email address, telephone number, and home address to the fraudulent surveys it is likely that you will receive unwanted email spam, telephone calls, and junk mail at home,” they said. “In order to disable this occurrence, it is recommended to take the necessary steps and safety precautions introduced by your email service, telephone provider, and mail carrier.”
The second step is to invest in anti-malware software that can report on any potential malware that can disrupt your computer or, even worse, leave you vulnerable to having your personal information distracted.
Lastly, it is always best to go to the brand’s website to see if any deals have been announced.
While you may not be the first in line, you will at least discern whether the offer is legitimate or just a fraudulent ploy to leave you at risk of identity theft.