Instagram, Facebook: Beware of These Formidable Christmas Scams!
The web giant warns of risks of Christmas Scams as Christmas approaches.
Scammers don’t take vacations; quite the opposite. The end-of-year holidays are often conducive to the deployment of numerous online scams. This is particularly the case on social networks. In a recent campaign, Meta, the parent company of Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp, sounded the alarm.
Frauds to Know About
Meta begins by listing some scams that have appeared on these platforms in the past and have since been dismantled. Unfortunately, these practices are common and could reappear soon.
This includes fake coupons and gift cards aimed at enticing users to provide their personal data. Similarly, promises of Christmas packages targeted French-speaking internet users with enticing offers. Again, the goal was to collect information about the users.
The last scam mentioned is also seasonal: the sale of Christmas decorations at reduced prices. Artificial trees were notably offered at extremely low prices. Individuals who took action lost their money and never saw the items they ordered.
Educating Users
In the face of these very real dangers, Meta has decided to amplify efforts to raise awareness among internet users. The group has notably partnered with NGOs, consumer groups, and influencers around the globe.
Tools Against Scams
Mark Zuckerberg’s firm also emphasizes its anti-scam tools. For example, on WhatsApp, if someone you don’t know sends you a message and adds you to a group, you will see a context card providing information about them.
Similarly, on Instagram, if an account suspected of engaging in fraudulent activities follows you, you will be alerted and made aware of this potentially suspicious connection. Finally, on Facebook Marketplace, if a message resembles known scam patterns, you will receive an alert.
While Meta is increasing account deletions and actions against these malicious actors, it is still important to be cautious as the end-of-year holidays approach. Be particularly wary of offers that seem too good to be true or interlocutors who try to create a sense of urgency.
Key Takeaways:
- Meta warns about certain frauds it has managed to dismantle on these applications.
- The group also presents its new anti-scam tools.
- As the holidays approach, vigilance is essential for all of us.