Facebook scammers are once again exploiting ignorant victims with celebrity obsessions by using sensational headlines. This time, American martial artist and actor Chuck Norris is the target; anyone who knows the Internet phenomenon about his name is a potential victim.
This version says something along the lines of “[video] Chuck Norris dies at age 71! Not a Joke.” followed by a fraudulent link. It also has the following description, according to Sophos: “See the video to find out how he died. News today of Chuck Norris death at age 71 has been met with confusion and humour, but sadly it is true.”
Instead of getting linked to a video, you’ll be told to share the link with all of your Facebook friends, as well as add a comment. The next webpage urges you to sign up for a premium rate mobile phone service, and/or complete an online survey.
The scammers’ goal is to drive more traffic towards certain sites. This is how the scammer earns his or her money: a commission for every survey completed, every product purchased, and/or every account compromised. They also use them to spread malware and obtain personal information.
As a general word of caution, don’t click on everything your Facebook friends share on the social network. If you see a scam like this one, report it. Then go check your own Wall to make sure you’re not spreading the scam; the sooner you clean it up and Unlike any relevant Pages, the better. You can also contact Facebook Security if you’d like to.
See also:
- Facebook virus or account hacked? Here’s how to fix it.
- Facebook releases official Guide to Facebook Security
- Experts: Facebook crime is on the rise
- Sex sells: Men fall for Facebook scams more than women
- Researchers invade Facebook with socialbots, grab 250GB of data
- Facebook Immune System checks 25 billion actions every day
