BBB Scam Alert: How to Protect Your Verified Social Media Account
Posted 9:14 a.m. on Tuesday, August 23, 2022
The following is from the Better Business Bureau:
Social networks have long been the favorite haunt of scammers. In this new phishing scam, scammers prey on businesses and individuals with verified accounts – a move that’s supposed to help prevent scams.
How the scam works
You receive a direct message or email that appears to come directly from Twitter, Instagram, or another social media platform. It indicates that your verified account has been flagged and you will need to verify it again. You could lose your verified account badge if you don’t respond.
For example, some Twitter users have reported receiving direct messages or emails stating that their blue verified badge has been marked as spam, and if they don’t appeal the decision, it will be removed.
The scam message asks you to click on a link or download a form to start the appeal process and re-verify your account. If you click, you may download malware to your laptop or mobile device.
This may collect your personal data without your knowledge. If you fill out forms or respond with requested information, scammers may be able to hijack your account or use your personal information to commit identity theft.
How to avoid social media scams
● Understand how social media platforms work. Get to know the policies of a social media platform before you start using it.
For example, Twitter never sends emails with a request for login credentials, nor emails with attachments. If you’re clear about the platform’s policies and procedures, you’ll be less likely to fall for a scammer’s correspondence, even if it looks legitimate.
● Beware of unsolicited messages. Whether it’s a DM, email, or message on a messaging app, be skeptical of out-of-the-box messages, especially if they ask you to click on links or open attachments. Instead, go straight to the source – the platform’s official customer service center – to find out if the message is real.
● Look for signs of a scam. Bad spelling, bad grammar, pressure to act now, and scare tactics are all red flags that indicate a scam.
● Always protect your personal information. Never give your login credentials or other personal information to a stranger without verifying the legitimacy of their request. Most reputable companies won’t ask for your login details.
