PHISHING – Instagram Users Targeted via Fake Infringement Notices
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What the fact-checkers found
Image: © depositphotos.com/IgorTishenko
According to Internet security firm Kaspersky, scammers are targeting popular Instagram accounts by sending fake copyright infringement notices.
The fake messages, which purport to be from the Instagram support team, claim that your account is set to be suspended because you have “violated the copyright laws”.
They warn that your account will be deleted within 24 hours. But, claim the messages, if you think that Instagram has made a mistake, you can click a link to verify and secure your account.
Clicking the link opens a fraudulent website that asks you to enter your Instagram login details as part of the supposed verification process. The fake site also asks for your email address and email account password.
At the end of the process, you will be redirected to the real Instagram website. Criminals can then hijack your Instagram and email accounts and use them to distribute spam and scam messages in your name. Or they may demand that you pay them a fee to recover access to your accounts.
If you receive one of these messages, do not click on it. Always access Instagram via the official app or by entering the address into your browser’s address bar.
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