For years, cybercriminals have used social media to post fake listings for popular items such as furniture or electronics. As these scams have grown in popularity, many people have learned to be careful when buying items online from strangers. Now, cybercriminals are impersonating people you trust to lure you in to their fake listing scams.
In a recent scam, cybercriminals use social engineering to gain access to the social media accounts of everyday users like your friends and family. If they’re successful, the cybercriminals will post items for sale from the hacked account. Since the listing appears to be from someone who you know and trust, it may seem legitimate. However, if you try to buy the item from the seller, you won’t receive the item you wanted. Instead, your money will go directly to the cybercriminals!
Follow the tips below to stay safe from similar scams:
- Watch out for social media listings that offer popular items at a price that seems too good to be true. These scams rely on impulsive actions, so always think before you click.
- Verify that listings are legitimate before taking action. Contact the poster using another method of communication, such as a phone call or text message.
Don’t let your social media account be used against your friends and family. Protect your login credentials by creating unique, strong passwords for each of your accounts.
Stop, Look, and Think. Don’t be fooled.
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