In the last few hours we have once again received various indications that fraudsters are on Facebook and copying users' existing profiles.

It is very easy for fraudsters to copy existing Facebook profiles. But this is not just because of Facebook, but because of the users: if all posts, pictures and the friends list are openly visible , then fraudsters only have to copy the pictures and write to everyone in the friends list that the old profile has been “hacked”. We have already reported in detail about this methodology, about which we continue to receive inquiries.

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This is how the scam works!

A fraudster creates a new Facebook identity modeled on an existing profile with the same name and the previously used profile picture + cover photo .

The internet fraudster then visits the original profile and combs through the victim's entire friends list, who then (apparently) receives another friend request (from an old friend) . A majority of users accept this request because they “know” each other.

If you confirm this, the new (apparently old) friend immediately sends a message asking you to provide the mobile phone number and the numerical codes, which are received immediately after the number is revealed. Extreme caution is required: these small and inconspicuous numerical codes are worth money!

By passing on the numerical codes, the fraudsters are able to redeem them at payment service providers and thereby charge the victim's cell phone bill. However, simply passing on your cell phone number does not result in a charge to your own cell phone bill.

never to pass on payment or confirmation codes sent via SMS to supposed friends - be it via messenger or social networks

What does that look like then?

A Facebook user sent us several screenshots of messages from scammers. Noticeable: He was immediately contacted by several people who wanted his cell phone number.

Screenshots: mimikama.org
Screenshots: mimikama.org

The PIN is then used to purchase Steam credit on the holyo.com site, for example, and the unsuspecting user then pays for it!

What can I do about this scam on Facebook?

First of all, ask the friend from whom you received this supposed renewed request whether he/she actually sent a new request. Of course, this is best done face to face.

You can also remember that a new friend request is logical if the friend in question has previously disappeared from the friends list - but you should still ask in this case too.

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We recommend that you a report with the relevant state criminal police office In view of the increasing number of internet crimes, special units have been set up here. The so-called Cyber ​​Crime Competence Center works in a technically highly professional and networked manner.

Officials are well aware of the Facebook scam with fake profiles. Some organized gangs have already been stopped - including in the area of ​​Facebook profile copies.

To do this, the officials are of course dependent on reports and therefore the help of those affected. According to the LKA Saxony, the number of unreported cases of such fraud is still very, very high.

Additional information

Item image: Shutterstock / By F22design


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Notes:
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