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Facebook Platform being used by SMS scammers02/28/10A long running type of fraud known as SMS scams work by using innocent looking surveys and/or questionnaires as a bait to lure victims into giving away personal information like addresses and cell phone numbers in order receive their results. However these SMS scams use that cell phone number and long winded terms and conditions to furtively sign up victims to expensive SMS services like ringtones and news updates. Typically these scams advertise their deceptive services with advertisement banners and even using search engine Google’s premium listings to attract visitors. However 2009 and 2010 have seen social networking sites like Facebook being used as a platform to get victims enrolled in these SMS scams. It works by the scammer setting up a Facebook group or fan page about a subject that will inherently attract as many Facebook members as possible. Examples include the Dell Giveaway Hoax and Facebook Gold Accounts whereas the victim is lured into joining and getting their friends to join as well. However the group purports that members first have to complete these questionnaires and surveys that duly sign up its victims into those expensive SMS subscriptions. Many of these scams operate within grey areas and loopholes within the law, and some just operate illegally. Shutting them down can be a slow process and may operate unhindered for many months. It is wise to never hand over personal information like addresses and mobile phone numbers to companies like this. Always read the terms and conditions completely to make sure you are not entering into expensive contracts. If you feel you have been tricked or duped in any way, always back out of handing over personal information, and NEVER join Facebook groups that purport to offer freebies/bonuses/features for completing surveys and questionnaires. |
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