Fake ‘Dislike’ button on Facebook tied to identity theft scam

Social networking site Facebook gives consumers and businesses a chance to connect on another level, although it can also present an opportunity for identity thieves.

Part of the interaction made available on the site includes a "Like" button, which can give members the chance to put their support behind a posting, product, service or event.

However, Facebook has yet to provide a "Dislike" button, and scammers have taken notice.

The Better Business Bureau announced recently that some thieves have set up a fake Dislike button. Clicking on it could install a program on a person’s computer that can track their information and lead to identity theft.

"While there have been multiple Facebook scams that have popped up recently, this is the first scam involving a dislike button," the BBB said.

Along with avoiding this particular ploy, there are other tactics consumers can use to help avoid identity theft while online. People should be careful of the kind of information they share on sites like Facebook and should not broadcast data tied to bank accounts or credit cards.

Posted in: Banking, Credit Cards

Banking News: This article was published on 8-19-2010 at 9:39 am.

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