It doesn't take much effort to get someone's attention. All you need is the magic word "FREE". This particular word is used by merchants all over the world to attract their customers (regardless of whether they pay later), advertising campaigns, and even scammers, wherever they are. In our daily lives, or on the internet, the word free is used to attract attention.
So, Facebook scammers and spammers are exploiting the magic word with great success. At any given time, you don't have to look far to find the following: "free" in Facebook offers - scams:
Free iPads, iPhones, PCs or tablets
Free gift cards & coupons
Free airline ticket deals
Free Facebook game credits
Free Facebook events
Free games
Free prize draws, money etc.
In this way, scammers lure their victims, extracting even a "small" like from them since it will appear on their Timeline and attract the next victim.
The risks with these scams usually lead to malware. Users are often tricked into downloading free games, browser plug-ins, or other files. If their system is not protected, they could unknowingly install a keylogger or other malicious programs.
How can you protect yourself from these scams?
You should be very wary of the word “Free” trap.
Think before you click! If the offer sounds too good to be true, then don’t click on that link! There is no way a company can afford to give every Facebook user the gifts they promise. It takes a little common sense.
If the offer you see seems legitimate, contact the company to check it out. Visit their website or contact them on the phone. It will only take a few minutes and will save you a lot of trouble!
If you come across such “deals” it would be a good idea to contact us at igurunews@gmail.com. We may be able to help by publishing the scam.
