Antivirus solutions provider Bitdefender has warned that fake videos spreading across Facebook are leading to malware infections rather than the promised content.
The new Facebook scam takes advantage of Emma Watson’s growing popularity, using the actress as bait. It starts with a Facebook comment promising to reveal private or leaked videos of the celebrity.
The comments are automatically posted by users already infected with the malware. Like many Facebook scams, victims end up as marketers for the fraudsters.
Copycat website
If you click on the malicious links, you are redirected to a YouTube copycat website. You are then asked to update your Flash Player, because an error allegedly prevents you from viewing it immediately.
To make the scam seem more credible, the fake YouTube account uses the Anonymous ‘Guy Fawkes’ mask, which is used by the hacking group often claiming celebrity video leaks.
Malware changes browser settings
Besides stealing phone numbers through premium SMS scams, the malware disguised as a Flash Player update also changes your browser settings not allowing you to see your list of extensions and Facebook activity and settings anymore.
You can get malware on Facebook from things like:
- Trying to watch a "shocking video" from a post.
- Visiting a website that claims to offer special features on Facebook.
- Downloading a browser add-on that claims to do something that's too good to be true.
In 2012 Watson held the number one spot in MacAfee’s annual “Most Dangerous Cyber Celebrity”.
Read more on the Bitdefender website.
Please note: Action Fraud is not responsible for the content on external websites.
If you are a victim of fraud you can call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or use our online fraud reporting tool and receive a police crime reference number.
