Fake Messenger Messages

There seems to be quite a few fake messenger messages, often encouraging the recipient to click on a link or video.  Sometimes it can be obvious that it is a scam, like when you get one from someone that you normally don't message with.  But even if its a trusted friend, don't click on links without confirming they are valid.

They can seem innocuous enough: a short sentence, an emoji, a video link. But if you get a message from one of your contacts on Facebook Messenger that doesn’t look like the kind of thing they would normally send, you should never open it.

That’s the advice from German police, who have recently issued guidance on how to deal with such messages. Behind these seemingly innocent messages sent from your contacts could be an attempt to hijack your Facebook account.

There are many ways in. Sometimes, clicking on the link opens a fake Facebook page, requesting users to log in. Your access data then lands right in the laps of scammers and can be misused.

In other cases, the user is asked to install additional software on their computer to be able to watch a supposed video. Often, this software is spyware, or worse.

So what can you do? Don’t enter any personal details or passwords, and never download unknown programs. Instead, inform the sender of the message, preferably not over Facebook Messenger. Facebook accounts can be compromised, and messages sent to contact lists, without the knowledge of the account holder.

The receipt of such messages in itself doesn’t put you in danger, say the police. But if, after opening the message, you have either entered your account details or downloaded software, you will need to act quickly to prevent damage.

If possible, scan your computer or smartphone with antivirus software. Also, change your Facebook password to avoid unwittingly becoming the sender of such messages.