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Scams are not uncommon on Facebook Messenger. To uncover them, you should know what to look out for
Facebook Messenger scams: What you should look out for
Identifying scams in Facebook Messenger requires a certain amount of attention and vigilance.
- Signs of scams can be, for example, unknown persons who make contact unexpectedly and try to obtain personal information or money.
- Scammers also often pose as potential romantic prospects and make contact with their victims via Messenger. They build up an emotional connection and then ask for money for alleged emergencies or trips.
- Others create fake profiles and send friendship requests to users. Once the request is accepted, they attempt to steal personal information or carry out fraudulent activities, such as selling fake products.
- Some also encourage unusual or suspicious activities, such as opening suspicious links or sharing credentials.
- It is not uncommon for fraudsters to make unusual offers or promises that sound too good to be true, such as competitions with large cash prizes with no conditions for participation. Or alleged investments that are supposed to bring high returns
How to act correctly
If you suspect that you have fallen victim to a Facebook Messenger scam, it is crucial to act quickly and appropriately.
- Don’t panic: Keep calm and do not react impulsively to suspicious messages or requests.
- Report message: Report suspicious messages or profiles to Facebook immediately to warn other users and stop the spread of the scam.
- Do not disclose any personal information: Never give out personal information such as passwords, bank details or addresses to unknown people.
- Contact Facebook: If you are unsure or need further help, contact Facebook directly for support and advice.
- Sharing the information: Tell your friends and family about the scam to protect them from similar dangers.
- Contact the police: If you are unsure, it can also be helpful to contact the police for advice. However, do not call 110, but the local police number for all other concerns. You can also report cases of fraud that you have already been taken in by the police
