facebook report scammer

How to Spot and Report Scammers on Facebook

If someone just contacted you on Facebook promising things or deals that seem too good to be true, that’s probably a scam attempt. Meta relies on automated systems to detect and remove Facebook scams before users see them. Unfortunately, these systems can sometimes be tricked by well-crafted scams. Let’s explore how you can quickly spot and report Facebook scams.

1.0.1 How to report a Page
1.1.1 Red Flags to Watch Out For
1.2 Conclusion

Facebook: How to Report Scammers

Here’s how you can report a scammer’s profile to Meta:

Go to the Facebook profile you want to report

Follow the on-screen steps to report the respective user

How to report a Page

Open the Page you want to report
Go to More options

Then, select Scams and Fake Pages
Select the option that best describes the Page you’re reporting
Hit Next and fill out the report form

If you want to report specific posts, follow the steps below:

Click on More options in the top right of the post

Then, select the option that describes the problem you’re experiencing
Send the report to Meta

Meta will then review your report and remove anything that doesn’t follow the Facebook Community Standards . Rest assured, your name will remain completely confidential.

How to Identify Scammers on Facebook

Lottery Scams

These scammers often impersonate government agencies or authorities and claim that you won a lottery. But the only way for you to receive your lottery win is to pay a small fee in advance or provide your bank details.

Loans at Low-Interest Rates

Scammers promise you instant loans at a low-interest rate for a small fee. They often impersonate government agencies or authorities to appear more convincing.

Romance Scams

Romance scammers often present themselves in an excellent light as they try to build trust with you. They’ll tell you they’re searching for the right partner but need money for flights, visas, etc. Unfortunately, the success rate of romance scams is pretty high. Scammers will talk to you for weeks or months before asking for money.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Strangers suddenly asking you for money for a friend or relative in an emergency situation
People promising loans, prizes, or other quick wins in exchange for a small fee you need to pay in advance
People asking you to switch to a different messaging service
Unverified Pages claiming to represent large companies or charity organizations
Unverified users claiming to represent public figures
Poor spelling and grammar

To report a Facebook scammer, click on “More options” and select “Find support or report profile.” Follow the on-screen steps and fill out the report form. Meta will review your report and take the necessary measures if the respective user doesn’t follow the Facebook Community Standards.

Have you ever been contacted by scammers on Facebook? What did they want? Tell us more about your experience in the comments below.

Author Madalina Dinita

Madalina has been a Windows fan ever since she got her hands on her first Windows XP computer. She is interested in all things technology, especially emerging technologies -- AI and DNA computing in particular.

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Someone has gotten over 10,000 from me telling me I had been selected to receive Civid grant and that the money will go to taxes. They locked my id.me account saying they were with government and would fix my account. Locked up my Facebook but recently gave back and contacted me on WhatsApp that they are the CEO if Facebook asking for more money. Does not feel right now.

I advertised a bike for sale on facebook market place I got 11 replies within minutes and they were all scammers. How do I report these?

When you ‘report’ a page or post it does not give you the option to explain that it’s a scam! There is no way to explain further and it’s far too vague! The way it works makes it literally impossible to report a scam post or page on Facebook! Disgusting and unacceptable!

I was just contacted by someone who wanted to purchase an item I am selling on Marketplace. I had given her my address to pick up the item and my email to pay me on Venmo. I received an email stating I needed to expand my account to a business account but the buyer would have to deposit AN ADDITIONAL $300. I was not okay with that but she offered to pay it. Thats when I knew it was a scam as she expected me to pay her back with my money once I received an email stating it went through. Now she has my address and email address. Very concerned.

This Adam picking on a handicap man, who is unable to walk, demanding a new product being sold on Facebook Market Place, already discounted at lowest price at home pick up. Telling me I must deliver and discount further, harassing me over internet over and over.

How can I report scam book publisher advertising on Facebook? Book publisher provides address where they not exist and phone number not available also. Would you describe this is scam or fraud?

The spam suuposedly came from a newly acquired friend on the Facebook Messenger. After a few general questions and answers I was asked if I heard of the new government assistance program for needy and retired people. I said no. Then I got the message that she did apply and she got $ 200,000 within 24 hours from a government department. A while later she (he) sent me a link to apply. The link was to agent – Taylor Williams and a number 103945778899982. There was a photo of “agent” Williams, a black man in his later forties, early fifties.. The next morning the message and the link were “not available on this app, presumably deleted by Facebook.

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Last Updated on January 2, 2023 by Mitch Bartlett

Top 10 Facebook Scams Spreading Now and How to Avoid Them

Written by: Thomas Orsolya

Published on: August 29, 2023

Facebook has over 2.8 billion monthly active users, making it the largest social media platform in the world. Unfortunately, with such a massive user base, scammers often target Facebook users with a variety of scams designed to steal personal information and money. Staying aware of the top Facebook scams can help you avoid falling victim to them.

This comprehensive guide will provide an overview of the 10 most common Facebook scams, explain in detail how these scams work, and provide tips on how to protect yourself. With knowledge and vigilance, you can help prevent these Facebook scams from succeeding.

This Article Contains:

1. Fake Friend Requests

Scam overview.

The fake friend request scam involves receiving friend requests from strangers, often using photos of attractive people. Accepting these requests gives scammers access to your profile information and friends list.

Scammers use fake accounts to appear more trustworthy. They often claim you have a mutual friend in common and may message complimenting your posts to further build rapport. Once connected, scammers use your personal information and connections to spread spam posts or malware links.

In some cases, scammers impersonate the identity of someone you may actually know to more easily gain access. With your personal details and connections in hand, scammers can exploit this information in various ways, like hacking accounts or committing identity theft.

Staying wary of friend requests from people you don’t know well, even if you appear to have mutual friends, can help you avoid this scam. Don’t accept requests just to be polite if you aren’t certain the person behind it is authentic.

How the Scam Works

The fake friend request scam often starts with an incoming friend request from a stranger on Facebook. To appear more legitimate, the scammer may use a profile picture of an attractive man or woman.

The scammer often claims you have mutual friends in common, naming one or two connections you actually have. This convinces some users to mistakenly assume the request is valid and accept it.

In the friend request message, the scammer may compliment your profile or make generic small talk. This further builds a façade of familiarity. Once connected as friends, the scammer has access to your profile information and full friends list.

With these details, scammers use your identity and connections in various fraudulent ways. For example, they may post malware or phishing links on your page that get shared with your friends. They can also message your connections with scams by posing as you.

In more sophisticated cases, scammers may impersonate someone you know to ensure you accept their request. Using hacked accounts or social engineering, they can replicate details about mutual friends or experiences only you would know. This convinces users the identity is valid, granting the scammer access.

Whether using a fake identity or impersonating someone real, these scams aim to take advantage of your connections once connected. Staying wary of all friend requests from unverified strangers can help you avoid inadvertently enabling these scams.

What to Do if You Connected with a Scammer

If you fear you may have accepted a friend request from a scammer, take these steps:

Review your mutual friends in common. Contact any connections listed to verify if they actually know this person. If not, they are likely fake.
Look for recent posts or conversations with the account. Scammers often have few posts or generic comments if any at all.
Check when the account was created. Fake accounts are often new, having been created recently.
Observe the account activity going forward. If you see suspicious posts or messages, that’s a red flag.
Report the account if you confirm it’s fake. Block them to prevent future contact.
Change your privacy settings to limit what friends of friends can access. This prevents scammers from exploiting mutuals.
Monitor your accounts closely for any suspicious activity going forward and report it immediately. Enabling Two-Factor Authentication adds an extra layer of security as well.
Warn your friends and connections about the scam to prevent the scammer from targeting more people. Share any details to help them recognize fake requests.

Staying vigilant when accepting new friend requests can help avoid letting scammers gain access. If you do connect with one, take swift action to report, block and mitigate the damage done.

2. Like-Farming Pages

Like-farming scams involve pages promising rewards or prizes in exchange for liking, sharing, and engaging with their content. By getting users to interact with posts, scammers boost their page rankings and reach. However, the promised rewards rarely materialize.

These pages rely on sensational claims to entice engagement. For example, they may promise cash prizes to random active users or claim you can win the latest iPhone model. Once you engage, however, you either never receive the promised rewards or must complete numerous additional steps that require you to spend money.

While not directly harmful, these like-farming pages often spread spammy content and exist solely to profit from your engagement. Identifying their outlandish claims and understanding their manipulative tactics can help avoid supporting these scam pages.

Like-farming pages typically incentivize likes, shares, and comments by promoting exciting giveaways or contests. For example, a page may claim:

“The 100,000th person to like this post will win a FREE iPhone X!”

These claims hook users into engaging to try and win. However, once you like the page or follow its instructions, you never receive the promised prize.

Some like-farming pages craft more elaborate scams to manipulate users. A page may claim you won a free reward, but you must first complete a number of steps to claim it.

These steps usually require visiting external sites, subscribing to services, or taking paid surveys. Users complete these actions hoping to claim the prize that brought them there in the first place. However, even after finishing all steps, you still never receive the reward.

While not directly stealing money or information, these like-farming scams prey on users’ desire for rewards to get them engaging with and spreading low-quality, clickbait content. Avoiding pages making promises that seem too good to be true can help you steer clear of their manipulative tactics.

What to Do if You Connect with a Like-Farming Page

If you engaged with a Facebook page you now believe to be a like-farming scam, here are some precautions to take:

Unlike and unfollow the page to stop supporting their manipulative tactics.
Report the page to Facebook detailing how they misled users. This can help get scam pages shut down.
Block the page from your account to prevent any future contact.
Check your account settings. Limit what information the general public can see to prevent details from falling into the wrong hands.
Beware of any external sites the page led you to visit. Avoid entering any sensitive information to steer clear of further scams.
Use security and privacy Facebook settings to manage who can see your activity and connections going forward.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication as an extra login security measure.

Staying wary of giveaways and prizes promoted on Facebook that seem too good to be true can help you recognize and avoid like-farming scams. Report any suspicious pages to keep other users from falling victim.

3. Fake News and Hoaxes

Fake news and hoaxes on Facebook refer to false stories or claims spread while posing as legitimate news. Scammers and dubious websites publish sensationalized or completely fabricated content to profit from engagement and clicks.

These stories intentionally mislead readers, often to serve a particular agenda. Fake political news spreading misinformation is one common example. Hoaxes about celebrities and viral clickbait are other varieties.

If you accidentally share or engage with a fake story, your interactions can increase its spread. Staying skeptical of questionable headlines and sources can help avoid enabling misinformation. Fact-checking sites can confirm whether stories are real or fake.

Fake news and hoaxes use attention-grabbing headlines crafted to stoke anger, shock, or other high-emotion reactions that drive shares. For example, a completely fictional article may claim:

“Shocking: [Celebrity] Claims [Outrageous Statement] About [Controversial Issue]”

Once intrigued by the headline, users click and read the article, inadvertently increasing traffic and ad revenue for the scammers behind it. The content often lacks any verifiable sources or facts.

In more harmful cases, fake political news spreads false claims about candidates during elections or twists issues to promote specific agendas. Some fake news intentionally incites outrage and harassment towards individuals.

Rather than doing basic fact checks, scammers rely on pieces going viral through social media shares. If you help spread their content, even just out of curiosity, it helps achieve their goals. Avoiding suspect headlines can prevent enabling misinformation.

What to Do if You Shared Fake News

If you shared an article on Facebook you later realized was fake or a hoax, here are some important steps to take:

Delete your post sharing the fake content. This helps stop its spread.
Comment on your post to clarify the content is fake before deleting it. This notifies your connections.
Report the fake news article to Facebook. This can help suppress its reach.
Check your privacy settings. Limit old posts being visible to prevent spreading debunked information.
When in doubt about suspicious news, look for trusted fact-checking sites to verify stories before sharing them.
Consider issuing a new post apologizing for spreading fake news and encouraging smarter sharing. We all make mistakes.
Learn to identify warning signs of fake news, like sensationalized headlines, dubious sources, and lack of author details.

Staying proactive by identifying and admitting mistakes can be empowering. We all fall for fake news sometimes, but collectively combating misinformation can make a real difference.

4. Facebook Charity Scams

Facebook charity scams involve fake fundraisers claiming to raise money for sick individuals or good causes. Scammers create compelling stories to exploit people’s generosity. However, donated funds actually just go to the scammers.

These pages mimic the names and branding of real charities. Using stock photos and fabricated details, scammers pose as individuals suddenly faced with medical crises or other emergencies in need of community support.

But despite promising donations will help victims in need, there is no one actually receiving the funds in reality. Avoiding posts that pressure you to donate without first verifying their authenticity can protect against this scam.

Facebook charity scams create elaborate backstories and financial goals seemingly to help people in dire need. For example, a page may claim to be raising emergency medical funds for a child’s operation.

Using a stock photo of a child and a fabricated story, scammers pose as the victim’s family. They provide detailed accounts of diagnoses, symptoms, and costs. Some even list specific doctors and hospitals to appear more credible.

The page urges users to make small donations, like $5, claiming they urgently need help reaching a goals of tens of thousands of dollars for life-saving treatment. Kind-hearted users give money believing it will make a difference.

However, the sick child and backstory are completely fictional. No medical treatments or emergency relief will be funded by donations. The money only benefits the scammers behind the fake fundraiser.

When encountering viral social media fundraisers, especially involving individuals you don’t know, it’s always smart to do some digging to ensure the campaign and cause are real before contributing any money.

What to Do if You Donated to a Scam Fundraiser

If you donated to what you now believe was a fake Facebook fundraiser, here are some important actions to take:

Report the fundraiser to Facebook as a scam and include details on how they misled you. This can get fraudulent fundraisers shut down.
Contact your bank and challenge the charges if you donated by debit/credit card. Report it as fraudulent.
Spread awareness to friends to reinforce the importance of verifying fundraisers before donating. Share your experience to prevent others being tricked too.
Look up the name image of anyone depicted to see if the photos are actually stock images of models. Reverse image searches can help expose this.
When in doubt, seek out the individuals or organizations campaigning for donations on other platforms to confirm identities.
For tax purposes, save any receipts or confirmation emails for donations you later learn were fraudulent.

Though disheartening to lose money, exposing these charity scammers can at least prevent further harm. Donating responsibly remains important, but always verify legitimacy first.

5. Facebook Live Scams

Facebook Live scams involve fake live videos that trick viewers into completing paid offers or sharing personal information to receive promised rewards. Scammers impersonate celebrities or companies to appear legitimate.

For example, scammers may pretend to show a live product launch or festival performance. The video entices viewers to click questionable links to register for prizes or receive free merchandise. However, providing personal details or completing suspicious offers only leads to identity theft or shopping scams.

Understanding these live videos are pre-recorded and that promised rewards don’t exist can help you avoid compromising your information or money in this scam.

Facebook Live scammers impersonate recognizable brands, artists, or public figures to appear credible. Using green screens or stolen footage, they mimic a live announcement or performance.

For example, scammers may pretend to stream an unreleased album preview from a popular musician. Or they may act as a celebrity promising free backstage passes to viewers who register on a particular website.

Thinking the offers are real and exclusive, viewers click the links in the video description. But they then lead to shady websites laden with surveys, subscriptions, or malware downloads.

Despite completing these steps as instructed, users receive nothing in return. The live videos are pre-recorded and all promises of freebies are completely fabricated. Sharing any personal information only puts you at risk for further scams.

Learning to identify the deception involved with these fake live videos and offers helps avoid falling into the trap. Real brands and celebrities announce giveaways directly through their official pages and channels.

What to Do if You Connected with a Fake Facebook Live Scam

If you engaged with a Facebook Live scam and shared any sensitive information, take these actions right away:

Report the video and any associated pages or websites to Facebook as a scam. Provide details on how the offers were misleading or suspicious.
If you entered payment information, contact your bank/card provider immediately to report fraudulent charges or block any future charges.
If you suspect your device is infected with malware due to the scam, run a scan with Malwarebytes to detect and remove any threats.
Change any website or account passwords you entered while interacting with questionable third-party sites. Enable Two-Factor Authentication for added security.
Monitor your accounts and credit reports closely for signs of fraudulent activity stemming from shared information. Place security freezes if identity theft appears likely.
Avoid further interaction with the scammers and any dubious third-party sites to limit exposure of your information. Block related pages/profiles.

Staying vigilant for signs of fake videos and false offers can prevent much bigger headaches. Report any Facebook Live scams you spot to protect other users as well.

6. Third-Party Advertising Scams

Third-party Facebook advertising scams involve advertisers posting links to shady websites or online offers. While Facebook screens ads, some scams slip through promoting products/services using deceptive claims or prices.

For example, a disingenuous weight-loss product may promote unrealistic results using doctored before-and-after images. Or an ad selling merchandise may claim unbeatable prices despite linking to low-quality counterfeit goods.

While Facebook tries preventing scam ads from reaching users, some still appear in timelines and the sidebar. Staying wary of outlandish claims and understanding your consumer rights can help avoid falling victim to predatory advertising.

Facebook allows businesses to advertise to targeted demographics. While most ads come from legitimate brands, some untrustworthy advertisers still slip through.

Scam advertisers aim to drive traffic to external sites where they can sell shady products or services using deceptive marketing. For example:

Weight-loss advertisements showing dramatic before-and-after pictures implying unrealistic results from their products. In reality, the photos depict different people entirely.
Luxury product ads offering deeply discounted designer items. But clicking the links leads to counterfeit replicas or lower-quality merchandise than advertised.
Financial ads promoting get-rich-quick investment opportunities or loans with hidden fees scamming users once on the site.

These advertisements often use eye-catching imagery, viral trends, or exaggerated claims specifically designed to entice clicks from users. The eventual sites then leverage manipulative tactics to get users making purchases or handing over sensitive information.

Simply ignoring suspicious ads is the best way to avoid entanglements. Also report any clearly misleading ones to Facebook. This trains their systems stopping such ads from reaching people and protects other users.

What to Do if You Connect with a Scam Advertiser

If an advertisement led you to a website selling deceptive products or services, take these precautions:

Leave the site immediately without making any purchases or entering personal information. This limits your exposure.
Report the ad to Facebook
Block the advertiser to prevent their ads from appearing in your feed again.
If you did purchase a product, look up the company to find contact information to request refunds or cancel recurring orders.
For credit card payments, report the charges as fraudulent to your card provider. Many have protections against deceptive marketing.
Carefully check bank and card statements going forward for any suspicious activity indicating stolen payment information.
If the advertiser had you enter any personal information like an email address, beware of potential phishing attempts via spam messages. Avoid opening anything suspicious.
Run a scan with Malwarebytes to check for malware if you downloaded anything from scam sites. Immediately change passwords for any accounts created.
Learn to identify common red flags of scam ads like unbelievable claims, pressure to act quickly, or contact forms as the only way to reach the company.

While Facebook removes most scam ads, some inevitably get through. Reporting suspicious advertisers helps improve protections for you and everyone on the platform. Staying vigilant against social media ads making claims that seem too good to be true can prevent many headaches.

7. QR Code Generators

QR code generators let users easily create QR codes to link to websites, payments, WiFi networks, and more. However, some free generator sites embed malware that gets downloaded onto your device when scanning codes they create.

Rather than take you to legitimate sites, these boobytrapped QR codes install harmful malware, steal login credentials, or compromise payment information. Fake QR generators are often advertised on Facebook to rope in unsuspecting visitors.

Sticking to reputable QR code tools curated by app stores and avoiding shady third-party generators can help you steer clear of this potentially damaging scam.

QR code generators act as hassle-free tools to create scannable codes, useful in a variety of situations. But some advertised online and on social media hide insidious malware that infects your device once scanned.

After generating your custom QR code using the site, you naturally assume it’s safe to then scan with your phone’s camera. However, doing so triggers a download of embedded malware, unbeknownst to you.

This malware can steal personal data, compromise accounts, brick devices, and enable other types of cybercrime. Criminals then leverage your information and compromised device for financial gain through identity theft, resale on dark web markets, and extortion plots.

Unsuspecting Facebook users see posts sponsoring “Free QR Code Generators!” and believe they’re getting helpful utilities. But failing to check site reputations and domain quality signals first can lead to damning consequences.

Sticking with trusted generators tied to legitimate apps and services ensures scannable codes won’t trigger unexpected malware. For the best safety, use tools recommended directly within your device’s app stores.

What to Do if You Used a Scam Generator

If you created QR codes using a suspicious third-party generator, take these steps to mitigate potential malware damage:

Scan your device with trusted antivirus software to detect and remove any malicious programs downloaded. Perform full system sweeps to check all your files and system tools.
Change all passwords for online accounts, especially banking, email, and social media. Enable Two-Factor Authentication everywhere possible for added security.
Contact your bank and credit card companies if you believe financial information was compromised. Closely monitor your statements for any signs of fraud.
Back up your personal data and perform a factory reset on your device if antivirus scans reveal extensive malicious threats. This fully cleans out malware.
Avoid using your compromised accounts or device for sensitive actions like online purchases until malware is eliminated and passwords reset.
Check privacy settings on all social media accounts. Revoke access permission to any unfamiliar third-party apps.

Avoiding questionable code generators and links advertised online prevents invented hassles. Using reputable QR tools recommended on app stores can give you codes convenient and safe.

8. PayPal Invoice Scams

Scammers send fake PayPal invoices via Facebook Messenger demanding payment for unauthorized purchases you never made. They often threaten account suspension if you don’t pay promptly. These invoices actually have no relation to PayPal and paying gives scammers direct access to your financial information.

Knowing PayPal communicates billing statements through your account dashboard or email can help recognize when an invoice is fraudulent. Simply ignoring all invoices sent randomly over Facebook avoids falling victim.

You receive an unexpected Facebook message from a random account containing a PayPal invoice claiming you owe money. The invoice looks official, containing your name, supposed transaction details, the amount due, and a paying link.

A message accompanying the invoice urges you to pay the amount promptly or risk account suspension. Scammers often stress real-looking deadlines to incite fear and pressure.

However, clicking the embedded payment link simply exposes your financial data directly to scammers. PayPal never actually sent this payment request – it’s entirely fabricated. But scammers profit either way from stolen account and credit card details.

Giving any validity to invoices for unrecognized purchases sent randomly over Facebook gives scammers the opportunity to exploit you. Remember, any real PayPal billing notices always arrive through official account messages or your registered email.

What to Do if You Get a Fake Invoice

If you receive a suspicious invoice demanding PayPal payment over Facebook, steer clear with these precautionary steps:

Disregard the invoice completely and do not click any links. Mark it as spam or block the sending account.
Login directly to your PayPal account to view recent billing statements. Contact customer support if anything appears unauthorized or ambiguous.
Do not communicate with the scammer any further. Replying confirms you’re a real target.
Beef up security by changing your PayPal password and enabling Two-Factor Authentication. Monitor closely for any other unusual activity.
If you mistakenly did pay the invoice, report the charges as fraudulent to your bank/card provider immediately. Notify PayPal as well.
Adjust your social media privacy settings and limit messages to trusted connections only. Scammers have a harder time making contact.

Remember, real payment processors don’t handle billing and statements over social media. Maintaining strong payment account security while ignoring all unsolicited invoices keeps your financial information protected.

9. Job Offer Scams

Some Facebook job posts promise profitable opportunities but actually aim to scam applicants out of money and personal information. Scammers impersonate real companies, often promising work-from-home roles needing only a small initial “training” fee to apply.

Targets who question the suspicious upfront costs then face threats of legal action or immigration issues. Once applicants pay the fee, the “employers” disappear or endlessly delay work start dates while demanding more money for other needs.

Avoiding job posts requiring payments, ID photos, or banking access is key to sidestepping these predatory scams. Real employers never demand fees from applicants.

Scammers advertise remote gigs at respected companies, often in technical support or secretarial roles. They promise high wages with minimal effort. For example:

“Seeking Work-From-Home Customer Service Agents. $60K annual pay. Limited positions available!”

When applicants inquire, the “employer” responds explaining need for training and security clearances before work starts. First, a small upfront fee of $50-100 must be paid, via wire transfer, gift card, or cryptocurrency.

Once applicants pay, the scammers demand more money for other fake needs, like background checks, anti-phishing software, or equipment. If victims stop payments, they incur threats of lawsuits or arrest.

Any ID photos, banking details, or personal information applicants provide aids identity theft. The “jobs” never materialize as promised. Losses can add up if victims maintain hope the role is legitimate.

Scrutinizing job posts advertising easy remote work for reputable companies that require payments beforehand helps avoid scammers profiteering off false opportunities.

What to Do if You Paid a Fee

If you wired money or paid a “training” fee for a Facebook job only to be scammed, promptly take these actions to limit damages:

Cut off all further communication with the “employer.” Attempting to reason or negotiate only increases risk of threats.
Report the scammers’ fake profiles and job posts to Facebook to hopefully have them removed.
Contact your bank to report fraudulent transactions and have charges reversed where possible. Provide any details on who received wire transfers.
Monitor your credit cards and bank accounts closely for any signs of unauthorized charges indicating a breach from shared payment information.
Change any account passwords you shared with scammers. Carefully check security settings for unfamiliar linked accounts or apps and revoke access.
Freeze your credit reports to protect against potential identity theft risks from turned over personal information.
File police reports to aid investigations into these job scams and get documentation to provide banks and credit bureaus.

Avoiding giving money or personal details to sketchy employers avoids headaches. Report job scams to protect other job seekers from falling victim too.

10. Malware Links

Scammers distribute malware links on Facebook poised as interesting content or software. Clicking these links triggers downloads of viruses, spyware, ransomware, or other malicious programs that damage devices and compromise data.

Malware links get shared intentionally by attackers or unwittingly by friends who stumbled upon malicious sites. Links disguised using URL shorteners or buried in caption copy often sneak past Facebook’s security filters.

Refraining from interacting with random links altogether and using updated antivirus protections can help keep devices and data safe from these malware hazards. Enabling Facebook protection warnings provides another line of defense against suspicious links.

Posts containing malware links are designed enticing users to click by promising funny videos, exclusive content, or free software. For example:

“This Viral Video Is Too Funny! Click Here To Watch”

“Install the Latest App Update Here”

“Click to See Leaked Photos!”

Users trusting the links come from legitimate sources click through. However, doing so silently installs malicious programs on your device typically without any indication.

Once installed, criminals can access your data, spy on your device usage, encrypt files for ransom, and otherwise monitor and control your device. You may only suspect something is wrong upon noticing impaired performance, glitchy operation, or other overt malware activity.

Avoiding clicking on random or sketchy links altogether, no matter how interested or curious you may feel, offers the best protection against inadvertent malware. Also run reputable antivirus to detect and halt any malicious programs.

What to Do if You Click a Malware Link

If you suspect your device became infected with malware after visiting a suspicious Facebook link, take these steps right away:

Change all account passwords immediately, especially for email, financial services, and social media. Enable Two-Factor Authentication everywhere possible.
Monitor accounts closely for unauthorized access or suspicious activity indicating info compromised by malware. Report issues promptly.
Back up personal data and reset your device to factory settings if antivirus scans reveal extensive threats. This fully eliminates malware persistence.
Avoid accessing sensitive accounts or info on the infected device until cleaned to prevent exploits. Use accounts online only from other safe devices temporarily.

Stay vigilant against viral links advertised across social media to sidestep devastating malware outcomes. Seeking help promptly after potential infections limits the fallout.

Is Your Device Infected? Check for Malware

If your device is running slowly or acting suspicious, it may be infected with malware. Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free is a great option for scanning your device and detecting potential malware or viruses. The free version can efficiently check for and remove many common infections.

Malwarebytes can run on Windows, Mac, and Android devices. Depending on which operating system is installed on the device you’re trying to run a Malwarebytes scan, please click on the tab below and follow the displayed steps.

Scan your computer with Malwarebytes for Windows to remove malware

Malwarebytes stands out as one of the leading and widely-used anti-malware solutions for Windows, and for good reason. It effectively eradicates various types of malware that other programs often overlook, all at no cost to you. When it comes to disinfecting an infected device, Malwarebytes has consistently been a free and indispensable tool in the battle against malware. We highly recommend it for maintaining a clean and secure system.

Download Malwarebytes for Windows

You can download Malwarebytes by clicking the link below.

Install Malwarebytes

After the download is complete, locate the MBSetup file, typically found in your Downloads folder. Double-click on the MBSetup file to begin the installation of Malwarebytes on your computer. If a User Account Control pop-up appears, click “ Yes ” to continue the Malwarebytes installation.

Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes

When the Malwarebytes installation begins, the setup wizard will guide you through the process.

You’ll first be prompted to choose the type of computer you’re installing the program on—select either “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer” as appropriate, then click on Next .

Malwarebytes will now begin the installation process on your device.

When the Malwarebytes installation is complete, the program will automatically open to the “Welcome to Malwarebytes” screen.

On the final screen, simply click on the Open Malwarebytes option to start the program.

Enable “Rootkit scanning”.

Now that you have enabled rootkit scanning, click on the “Dashboard” button in the left pane to get back to the main screen.

Perform a Scan with Malwarebytes.

To start a scan, click the Scan button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its antivirus database and begin scanning your computer for malicious programs.

Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.

Malwarebytes will now scan your computer for browser hijackers and other malicious programs. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check the status of the scan to see when it is finished.

Quarantine detected malware

Once the Malwarebytes scan is complete, it will display a list of detected malware, adware, and potentially unwanted programs. To effectively remove these threats, click the “ Quarantine ” button.

Restart your computer.

When removing files, Malwarebytes may require a reboot to fully eliminate some threats. If you see a message indicating that a reboot is needed, please allow it. Once your computer has restarted and you are logged back in, you can continue with the remaining steps.

Your computer should now be free of trojans, adware, browser hijackers, and other malware.

If your current antivirus allowed this malicious program on your computer, you may want to consider purchasing Malwarebytes Premium to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your computer after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:

Run a computer scan with ESET Online Scanner
Ask for help in our Windows Malware Removal Help & Support forum.

Scan your computer with Malwarebytes for Mac to remove malware

Malwarebytes for Mac is an on-demand scanner that can destroy many types of malware that other software tends to miss without costing you absolutely anything. When it comes to cleaning up an infected device, Malwarebytes has always been free, and we recommend it as an essential tool in the fight against malware.

Download Malwarebytes for Mac.

You can download Malwarebytes for Mac by clicking the link below.

Double-click on the Malwarebytes setup file.

When Malwarebytes has finished downloading, double-click on the setup file to install Malwarebytes on your computer. In most cases, downloaded files are saved to the Downloads folder.

Double-click on setup file to install Malwarebytes

Follow the on-screen prompts to install Malwarebytes.

When the Malwarebytes installation begins, you will see the Malwarebytes for Mac Installer which will guide you through the installation process. Click “ Continue “, then keep following the prompts to continue with the installation process.

Click Continue to install Malwarebytes for Mac

When your Malwarebytes installation completes, the program opens to the Welcome to Malwarebytes screen. Click the “Get started” button.

Select “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer”.

Click on “Scan”.

Click on “Quarantine”.

Restart computer.

Your Mac should now be free of adware, browser hijackers, and other malware.

If your current antivirus allowed a malicious program on your computer, you might want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still experiencing problems while trying to remove a malicious program from your computer, please ask for help in our Mac Malware Removal Help & Support forum.

Scan your phone with Malwarebytes for Android to remove malware

Malwarebytes for Android automatically detects and removes dangerous threats like malware and ransomware so you don’t have to worry about your most-used device being compromised. Aggressive detection of adware and potentially unwanted programs keeps your Android phone or tablet running smooth.

Download Malwarebytes for Android.

You can download Malwarebytes for Android by clicking the link below.

Install Malwarebytes for Android on your phone.

In the Google Play Store, tap “ Install ” to install Malwarebytes for Android on your device.

Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup process

Update database and run a scan with Malwarebytes for Android

You will now be prompted to update the Malwarebytes database and run a full system scan.

Click on “ Update database ” to update the Malwarebytes for Android definitions to the latest version, then click on “ Run full scan ” to perform a system scan.

Update database and run Malwarebytes scan on phone

Click on “Remove Selected”.

Restart your phone.

Malwarebytes for Android will now remove all the malicious apps that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your device.

Your phone should now be free of adware, browser hijackers, and other malware.

If your current antivirus allowed a malicious app on your phone, you may want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your phone after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:

Restore your phone to factory settings by going to Settings > General management > Reset > Factory data reset.
Ask for help in our Mobile Malware Removal Help & Support forum.

Social media scams continue growing in sophistication, making educating yourself on common techniques essential. Avoiding dubious links, offers, fundraisers, ads, and requests through Facebook greatly reduces your chances of being manipulated or exploited.

Apply smart security habits, like using strong unique passwords, scanning for malware, enabling Two-Factor Authentication everywhere, and monitoring closely for unauthorized access. Report any scams you encounter to help curb their spread.

Remaining wary of content designed to provoke high-emotion reactions or offered exclusively through Facebook helps recognize many scams faster. Seeking official information from reputable sources remains the most reliable method to avoid falling victim.

With scam awareness and vigilance around your personal data and money, Facebook can remain an entertaining platform to connect without putting your security at risk.

Here are 10 basic security tips to help you avoid malware and protect your device:

Use a good antivirus and keep it up-to-date.

It's essential to use a good quality antivirus and keep it up-to-date to stay ahead of the latest cyber threats. We are huge fans of Malwarebytes Premium and use it on all of our devices, including Windows and Mac computers as well as our mobile devices. Malwarebytes sits beside your traditional antivirus, filling in any gaps in its defenses, and providing extra protection against sneakier security threats.

Keep software and operating systems up-to-date.

Keep your operating system and apps up to date. Whenever an update is released for your device, download and install it right away. These updates often include security fixes, vulnerability patches, and other necessary maintenance.

Be careful when installing programs and apps.

Pay close attention to installation screens and license agreements when installing software. Custom or advanced installation options will often disclose any third-party software that is also being installed. Take great care in every stage of the process and make sure you know what it is you're agreeing to before you click "Next."

Install an ad blocker.

Use a browser-based content blocker, like AdGuard . Content blockers help stop malicious ads, Trojans, phishing, and other undesirable content that an antivirus product alone may not stop.

Be careful what you download.

A top goal of cybercriminals is to trick you into downloading malware—programs or apps that carry malware or try to steal information. This malware can be disguised as an app: anything from a popular game to something that checks traffic or the weather.

Be alert for people trying to trick you.

Whether it's your email, phone, messenger, or other applications, always be alert and on guard for someone trying to trick you into clicking on links or replying to messages. Remember that it's easy to spoof phone numbers, so a familiar name or number doesn't make messages more trustworthy.

Back up your data.

Back up your data frequently and check that your backup data can be restored. You can do this manually on an external HDD/USB stick, or automatically using backup software. This is also the best way to counter ransomware. Never connect the backup drive to a computer if you suspect that the computer is infected with malware.

Choose strong passwords.

Use strong and unique passwords for each of your accounts. Avoid using personal information or easily guessable words in your passwords. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts whenever possible.

Be careful where you click.

Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. These could potentially contain malware or phishing scams.

Don't use pirated software.

Avoid using Peer-to-Peer (P2P) file-sharing programs, keygens, cracks, and other pirated software that can often compromise your data, privacy, or both.

To avoid potential dangers on the internet, it's important to follow these 10 basic safety rules. By doing so, you can protect yourself from many of the unpleasant surprises that can arise when using the web.

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Personal Finance

Facebook Scams Are Everywhere. Here’s How To Stay Safe

Updated: Oct 6, 2022, 7:00am

Facebook Scams Are Everywhere. Here’s How To Stay Safe

Facebook is often billed as a platform for keeping up with friends. But in order to do so, users need to dodge scammers lurking there.

A new survey of 1,005 adult Facebook users who reported experiencing scams in the United States found that platform users are targeted in a multitude of ways.

Fifteen percent of respondents said they were asked to pay a fee to apply to a job, while 27% reported that someone asked them to send them money or gift cards to receive a reward. Both are prolific scams on Facebook and other platforms .

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Facebook Scams Range from Phishing Links To Fake Ads

The survey, conducted by OnePoll for Forbes Advisor, found that respondents frequently encountered suspicious behavior while on Facebook, including receiving a friend request from someone they were already friends with or from someone they didn’t know. Receiving a message asking to click on a link was also a common experience.

These scams and phishing attempts (the fraudulent practice of what appears to be a well-known business or individual sending a message to a consumer asking them to provide sensitive information, such as a photo of their Social Security number card) can lead to serious consequences for consumers.

Thirteen percent of respondents said that someone used their stolen identification information (such as name, address, or Social Security number) to impersonate them; twelve percent reported that someone gained access to their financial accounts.

Meta, the parent company of Facebook, didn’t respond to a request for comment from Forbes Advisor on the survey data.

What the survey makes clear is that it’s becoming increasingly difficult for users to be on guard against such a wide range of scams on Facebook.

Social media has become a gold mine for con artists. In 2021, The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) found more than 95,000 people reported about $770 million in losses to fraud initiated on social media.

Investment and romance scams were the most profitable forms of fraud for scammers on social platforms. Con artists will create fake relationships to ask for money, or promise unrealistic returns on crypto products .

Read more: How To Stay Safe From Scammers Sliding Into Your DMs

Shopping scams are also common. One such scam is ads for products that show up in your newsfeed that look legitimate and may tempt you into making a purchase; however, the product may never show up. And if it does, it’s completely different from what was advertised, and usually of a lesser quality. The scam victim may then struggle to return the product and may not get their money back.

But even being the victim to a scam on Facebook isn’t enough to deter users from returning to the platform. Six out of ten respondents reported using Facebook several times per day, even though a majority of survey respondents said they’re concerned they’ll be identity theft victims in the future.

The cognitive dissonance of respondents frequently encountering scams but not closing their Facebook account is a testament to how breaches of trust don’t overcome how ingrained the app is in everyday life.

The #DeleteFacebook movement began in response to the revelation of the Cambridge Analytica data scandal . In 2018, it was found that the analytics firm obtained sensitive personality data on Facebook for as many as 87 million users without their consent. The FTC eventually fined Facebook $5 billion for violating consumer privacy laws—one of the largest penalties ever imposed by the U.S. government.

Despite the Cambridge Analytica scandal, there are still nearly 3 billion monthly active users on Facebook (although there are signs that users are starting to decline ).

An article by Mashable found that despite not liking the platform, people have kept their Facebook accounts for a variety of reasons, including it being a requirement to log on to other platforms, needing it for work or school purposes and for keeping up with their community.

“For a lot of users, it isn’t that they don’t want to delete their Facebook — it’s that Facebook has become so intertwined with the way they live online that they can’t really escape it,” writes Christianna Silva, reporter at Mashable. “To leave Facebook would be to shift the way they interact with the internet.”

How Consumers Can Protect Themselves From Scams on Facebook

With social media scams continuing to be on the rise, including on Facebook, keeping yourself safe is a priority. Here are steps you can take to help safeguard your social media presence.

1. Use Two-Factor Authentication to Keep Your Facebook Account Secure

Many online platforms use two-factor authentication to keep accounts secure, including Facebook. Two-factor authentication is a security feature that requires an additional credential after entering your password.

On Facebook, that additional credential can be tapping a security key on another device, using login codes from a third-party authentication app or entering a code sent to you via text message. You must enable this feature—it isn’t automatic for users.

Facebook notes that once you enable two-factor authentication, you’ll receive 10 recovery login codes to use if you don’t have access to your phone. Recovery codes can be stored safely in a password manager .

2. Don’t click on suspicious links in messages

According to Facebook, suspicious links are part of sophisticated phishing techniques that scammers use to gain access to someone else’s Facebook account or to trick people into sharing sensitive personal information.

A common phishing scheme involves someone sending a video link via Facebook Messenger and asking if it’s you in the video. The link then takes you to a fake Facebook login page where you’re asked for your credentials— once you enter them, the scammer can access your account.

Phishing links are often short-coded, meaning they don’t indicate the address they link to. Scammers often use this tactic to trick people into clicking on them. If you’re ever unsure if a link sent to you is legitimate, you can enter it into VirusTotal , a free website that analyzes links to determine where they lead to and whether or not they may contain malware.

Scammers aim to take over accounts so they can send phishing links or spam to your network to steal more personal information or even get people to send them money.

3. Check out a company before you buy their products

If you see an ad for a product you’re tempted to buy, look into the seller first before making the purchase. The FTC recommends searching the company name online plus “scam” or “complaint” to see if they’ve victimized consumers in the past.

The FTC also warns consumers to never buy anything online from sellers that only accept payment by gift cards, money transfers or cryptocurrency as these payments are nearly impossible to reverse.

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4. Freeze your credit reports

While freezing your credit won’t stop Facebook scammers, it can guard against potential consequences of identity theft. However, sixty-seven percent of respondents say they haven’t frozen their credit reports, despite encountering scams on Facebook.

Freezing your credit report is a process that blocks new accounts from being opened in your name. If you mistakenly provided sensitive personal information to a criminal while being scammed on Facebook, a freeze can prevent them from being able to open a credit card or loan in your name.

For a freeze to be most effective, you’ll need to contact all three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion) individually. You can do this online, by phone or by mail. All three bureaus will freeze your credit for free and it doesn’t affect your credit scores. Keep in mind that if you plan to apply for a new line of credit in the near future, you’ll have to contact the three bureaus individually to have them lift the freeze.

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Kelly Anne has over six years of experience with reporting and editing in the personal finance space. Her work has been featured in national publications including Reader's Digest, CNBC and Forbes. She has a background in business education and a master's degree in international communication studies.

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How to Avoid Facebook Messenger Scams

Cybercriminals posing as friends may try to trick you into handing over money or personal data. here's how to stop them., sharing is nice.

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Last November, Crystal Murdock, a 44-year-old social worker from Weeki Wachee, Fla., received a message from an account belonging to one of her Facebook Messenger friends. The two had chatted in the past, so she had no reason to suspect it was a scam.

"He asked me how I was doing," Murdock says. "I said I was doing great. And then he said, ‘Oh, I'm doing really great.' He told me he had won this grant for $150,000 from a company called Global Greengrants Funds and that he saw my name on a list of people who qualified for it."

Global Greengrants Fund is real. It provides small grants to grassroots organizations to support environmental action worldwide. It's even listed on Guidestar, an online database that records the names of nonprofit organizations.

And so Murdoch texted the phone number she'd been given to ask for more information. After providing some personal data, she was informed she'd need to pay $1,500 to get the funds. That's when she backed off.

Good thing, too, because she was on the verge of falling for a common Facebook Messenger scam. In addition to fictitious grants, cybercriminals have been using the platform to peddle fake loans, lottery winnings, and requests for charitable donations.

Alex Grossman, a company spokesman for the Global Greengrants Fund, says the organization has been helping victims report the problem to Facebook. "The scammers are in no way related to Global Greengrants Fund," he adds.

A Facebook spokesperson says the company is working to protect users—online and on the Messenger mobile app—employing "technology, reporting tools, and human review" to remove malicious accounts. But there also are steps that consumers can take to protect themselves (see below).

According to Facebook's latest Community Standards Enforcement Report, the company removed 3.2 billion fake accounts from its social media platform between April and September 2019, up from 1.5 billion during the same period in 2018. "Most of these accounts were blocked within minutes of their creation," Facebook says.

But that still leaves some Facebook Messenger users exposed to thieves. The use of the popular messaging app is particularly pernicious, according to security experts, because the scammers appear to be people victims know and trust.

"It seems a bit more personalized," says Ashlee Benge, a threat researcher at the Baltimore-based internet security firm ZeroFox. "Gone are the days when attackers could send out emails with the same generic content body and hope people fell for it."

Murdock agrees. "If it had been a total stranger, I would have ignored it all together," she says. "But since the message came from somebody I've talked to before, it made me more interested."

Never Hand Over Money or Data

According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the government agency that polices the internet, consumers have grown savvy in recent years about phishing scams. So cybercriminals have developed more complex attacks, using spoofed phone numbers , text messages , and social media platforms to pose as neighbors, friends, and family members.

While the number of victims is falling, the money lost to such scams is increasing, the FTC says.

Murdock escaped that fate. But she did surrender personal information that could prove valuable to criminals engaged in identity theft.

"They wanted my full name, my mother's full name, full home address, whether I would want the money in check or cash, my age, my gender, marital status, phone number, email address, and whether I was employed or still on disability," she says.

"That information she gave is terrifying," says Danny Jenkins, CEO of Threatlocker, a Florida-based digital security firm. "Yes, the scammers could get it online if they dug deeper, but they are always about speed. They don't want to dig for your data."

Using the info Murdock provided, Jenkins says, a thief could arrange for a SIM card swap via a cell-phone service and claim her phone number. And once in control of her phone line, they could request a password reset on her online banking account and drain her funds.

"Scams like this are particularly scary," says Zack Allen, director of threat operations at ZeroFOX. "Scammers for grants typically start with information that isn't as sensitive and build up rapport to work their target for more sensitive information."

Facebook recently launched a privacy and safety hub , where Messenger users can learn more about features designed to help them report concerns and halt unwanted interactions. The company says it works with law enforcement, including the FBI, to find and prosecute scammers.

To be safe, Murdock should also set up credit monitoring , change her passwords , and activate two-factor authentication for her social, email, and financial accounts, digital security experts say.

How to Protect Yourself

Here are a few steps you can take to protect yourself from cybercriminals.

Beware of anyone requesting or offering money. Scammers have dreamed up lots of ways to empty your wallet. They may impersonate a relative in an emergency, for example. Or request a gift card or fee in return for a loan or a prize. If you think you may have interacted with a scammer, block him or her and report the account to Facebook at [email protected] .

Guard your financial information. Be wary of texts or email asking for account numbers, credit card numbers, and wire transfers as well as alerts about failed transactions. There's no reason to share such info via message or an unsecure site.

Don't open attachments. They may contain malware. And you should never type confidential information into a form attached to an email. The sender can potentially track the info you enter.

Double-check the link. Before you click on a link in an email or on the internet, try hovering your mouse over it. This will reveal the full address, which can expose signs of fraud. A ".ru" on the end, for example, means the site was created in Russia; ".br" means Brazil.

Misspellings are another good tip-off to a fake website. If the URL says globallgrants.com, it's best to avoid it. Search for the company on Google and access the website that way instead.

Don't assume that a website is legitimate just because its URL starts with "https." Criminals like to use encryption, too.

Change your password. "We're all guilty of not changing our Facebook password often enough," says Jenkins. "Using a more secure password reduces the risk of someone hijacking your account." That doesn't protect you from imposters, but it does prevent scammers from using your profile to defraud others.

Enable two-factor authentication. If you've ever had to use a six-digit verification code texted to your cell phone to log in to a digital account, you have some idea of how 2FA works . Once you turn on the setting, you have to provide a password and another unique identifier to access your account from an unverified device or location. This protects you if a stranger steals your password.

Turn on auto updates. This goes for your computer, smartphone, and tablets. Up-to-date security software goes a long way toward stopping malware.

Use security tools. Install an antivirus program on your device and keep it up to date. You can also use a website reputation rating tool, which comes in the form of a browser plug-in, to warn you if you try to go to potentially dangerous websites. Cybersecurity companies such as McAfee, Kaspersky, and Norton offer them. But keep in mind that these tools aren't foolproof.

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March 6, 2023

Last Updated on March 6, 2023

How to Report a Scammer on Facebook?

Being scammed on Facebook is becoming more and more common. Cybercriminals mask their identities through catfish profiles or send malicious links to steal people’s private information. Read on to learn how to report a scammer on Facebook so you can stop them in their tracks before damage is done.

Recognizing a Facebook Scam

Here are a few tips on how you can recognize a Facebook scam.

Beware of Unfamiliar Links

One of the most common ways scammers try to take advantage of users on social media is by sending out malicious links. It could be a link in an email or message or even posted on your wall by someone posing as your friend. If you come across any links that look suspicious—especially if they are from unfamiliar sources—it’s best to avoid clicking on them. Even if it seems like something you usually click on (like an interesting article or funny video), it is better to be safe than sorry.

Look Out for Fake Profiles

Scammers often create fake profiles to access users’ personal information and financial data. These phony accounts usually have minimal profile information and few friends in common with the victim, so watch out for this red flag. You should also pay attention if someone starts messaging you about money or asking for your bank account details; these are significant warning signs that something is wrong.

Be Wary of Ads and Offers That Are Too Good To Be True

Another way scammers try to take advantage of unsuspecting users is by offering deals and discounts that seem too good to be true. Often these offers are nothing more than elaborate scams designed to get you to give up your credit card information or other personal data. Always double-check before clicking through and trust your gut if something feels wrong—chances are it is not!

Reporting scams and disturbing behavior on Facebook is simple. Facebook is aware of the scams on its platform, so it made it easy for users to report and even block anyone who makes them uncomfortable.

To report an account on Facebook, follow these simple steps:

Go to the profile of the person who sent you the message.
Click on the three dots in the upper right-hand corner of the person’s profile.
Click “Report”
Select “It’s a scam” from the drop-down menu.
Click “Send”
Facebook will review the report and act if necessary.

What Happens After You Report a Scammer?

If the scam you are dealing with makes you feel unsafe, or like Facebook is not helping end the abuse, you should report it to the authorities. Facebook is limited in the amount of help it can provide to put an end to a scam. Yes, you can write the scammer; however, that does not mean that the scammer will disappear. Depending on the type of scammer you are dealing with, they might find another way to come back.

After you report a scammer’s profile or threatening messages, Facebook will investigate the profile and messages and determine if they go against the platform’s community guidelines. There will be times when Facebook will not deem a message or an account that goes against their guidelines, so they will leave a scammer’s account active. This will become an issue because it allows these criminals to continue the abuse and go after others.

Other Ways to Protect Yourself on Facebook Text

Over 2 billion people use Facebook, so there is a good chance you are one of them. And if you are, then you need to know how to protect yourself from the many security threats on one of the world’s largest social media platforms. Here are four ways you can do that today!

Use a Strong Password
Enable Two-Factor Authentication
Be Careful What You Click On
Keep Your Software Up-To-Date

Scams on Facebook can be dangerous if people are not careful about whom they interact with online. By understanding different types of scams, remaining vigilant when interacting with others online, and learning how to report a scammer on Facebook, users can protect themselves from potential threats posed by scammers. Remember: take extra precautions when dealing with strangers online — no matter how trustworthy they may seem! We can help you not only if you become a victim of scammer on Facebook but also in case of Sextortion on Facebook . Contact our sextortion helpline for expert advice & Service

How to Report Scammers on Facebook?
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How to report a fraud on Facebook

Table of Contents:

Last updated on: April 2, 2024

Despite the newer social media platforms like Instagram or Tiktok, Facebook remains one of the most popular social media networks in 2022, with almost 3 billion monthly active users .

With the popularity of the platform and the massive user base, many businesses are still considering Facebook as a part of their online marketing strategy. Even in 2022, Facebook is still very effective as a marketing channel, whether to build awareness, generate leads, or even to encourage direct sales on the platform.

However, with the fact that the massive number of established brands active on Facebook, there are also many bad actors, scammers, and cybercriminals looking to exploit the platform’s popularity in many different ways, including:

Tricking Facebook users into divulging their personal or sensitive information.
Selling fake/ counterfeit goods on Facebook, mainly by imitating an established brand or individual.
Posting derogatory content to damage the reputation of a business on the platform.
Sending links to phishing scams and running other fraudulent schemes.

So, if you are a business with an online presence on Facebook, how can you protect your brand integrity? What can you do if a scammer imitates your brand on Facebook?

In this guide, we will explore how to report frauds on Facebook, how to take down fraudulent pages impersonating your brand, and several other relevant topics.

Let us begin this guide right away.

How Facebook views trademarked intellectual property

As a brand owner, especially if your brand has a registered trademark, we must first observe the legality of fraud Facebook profiles impersonating your brand.

Is the practice considered legal or illegal by Facebook?

The short answer is no; if a brand has a registered trademark, then Facebook is obligated to follow US federal trademark laws as well as relevant trademark laws in your state, and impersonating a trademarked brand with substantial similarity is considered illegal by the US federal government.

Meaning, that acts of trademark infringement , including the creation of a fraudulent Facebook page impersonating a registered brand, are strictly prohibited on Facebook.

If you discover your brand being impersonated by others on Facebook, reporting a fraud page is well within your rights; in fact, Facebook is obligated to take action, whether it be to stop the infringement or to return the infringed page to the legitimate owner.

What if I hadn’t registered my trademarks?

While this situation isn’t ideal, as you should definitely register your brand and brand elements subject to trademarks or copyrights as early as possible, Facebook also adheres to the common law trademark rights .

This means that it has the right to close pages and ban users that perform infringements on unregistered trademarked IPs, which can include individual/personal identity.

Meaning, that if you, for one reason or another, can’t or haven’t registered your IPs for trademarks, you can still report fraud pages on Facebook impersonating your identity.

What are considered infringements on Facebook?

With Facebook being such a “rich” platform where you can technically upload any type of content, copyright and trademark infringements on Facebook can happen in many different ways.

With that being said, here are the most common ways perpetrators can infringe your copyright or trademark on Facebook:

Creating fraud profiles or pages using your brand name, logo, and other brand elements.
Publishing fake ads using your brand elements, claiming that the ad comes from you.
Using your slogan, catchphrase, or other trademarked elements in an advertisement (including video ad).

Red Points Social Media Impersonation Removal

Monitor and identify copyright infringements on Facebook

With billions of Facebook profiles, accounts, and pages on the platform, finding those who have infringed your trademarks can be very challenging in practice, especially if you don’t know where to look.

Thus, here are some actionable tips you can use to monitor and identify bad actors impersonating you on Facebook:

1. Search for names related to your brand

Arguably the easiest yet most effective method you can use is to simply search for your brand name (or your individual name, depending) on the Facebook platform.

Fortunately, Facebook has a pretty robust and versatile search function, and you can also try to include phrase variations related to your brand, including potential typos (i.e., Facebok instead of Facebook).

Once you’ve performed this search, Facebook should return your query with a search results page listing all the pages that may have impersonated your brand intentionally or unintentionally.

Review these results thoroughly. Remember that just because an account or a page has your brand name; doesn’t necessarily mean they have malicious intent to impersonate your brand. Assess other factors like the content on the page (i.e., whether there are similarities with your own), their geographical location (at least, where they claim to be), interactions with other Facebook users, and so on.

An important consideration is that sophisticated scammers will keep the habit of blocking your brand (as a trademark owner) from searching about them. So, you may try using another Facebook account to perform the search and bypass the block.

2. Reverse image search

You can use Google Images or other search engines allowing image search to perform a reverse search: checking whether there are profiles and Facebook pages that have posted photos of your brand, product photos, or other images related to your business on the platform.

While, in theory, this approach can be effective, in practice, it is very time-consuming to do and will only be even more challenging as your brand grows bigger.

3. Using hashtags to search for fraudulent pages and profiles

While hashtags might not be as prominent on Facebook as it is on other social media networks like Twitter or Instagram, you can still leverage hashtags and Facebook’s algorithm to search for fraud Facebook pages and profiles.

This hashtag search method is especially effective for scammers that offer goods online (i.e., selling counterfeit goods or fake service subscriptions), since typically these scammers will also use product-specific hashtags to offer the goods.

However, since obviously there will be legitimate sellers (i.e., your competitors), consumers, and vendors also using the hashtags, the actual process of finding this perpetrator can be akin to finding a needle in a haystack.

4. Leveraging a social media infringement mitigation solution

The most effective way to protect your brand online on Facebook and other social media networks is to leverage a Facebook Impersonation Removal Software like Red Points’ .

Red Points will help your brand monitor and scan through thousands of Facebook pages, profiles, web pages, and other social media networks every single minute to quickly identify fraud pages impersonating your brand.

With a real-time brand protection solution like Red Points’, you can effectively eliminate the need to perform time-consuming monitoring and manual searches when attempting to find scammers and impersonating pages.

Faster, real-time detection means that you can quickly take the required action, report fraud on Facebook, and take them down as soon as possible before they can leave significant damage to your brand reputation .

How to report and take down fraud Facebook pages: step-by-step guide

You can report any scam pages or profiles you suspect of impersonating you or your brand on Facebook, even if you currently don’t have a Facebook account or page.

Reporting a scam profile or page with your Facebook account

If you happen to have a personal Facebook account or a dedicated Facebook business page for your brand, then you can easily report potential fraud profiles or pages by following these steps:

Go to the impersonating profile or Facebook page that you’d like to report. Keep in mind that the scammer may block your account as the legitimate trademark owner from viewing this page/profile to reduce their chance of being found. As a result, you may need to use another Facebook account to view this page or profile.
Click the three horizontal dots below the page’s cover photo.
Select Find Support or Report Profile if you are reporting an impersonating profile, or select Find Support or Report page if you are reporting a page.
If you are reporting a page, select Scams and Fraudulent pages.
Select the option that best describes the impersonating page on the screen, then click Next.

Reporting a profile or page without a Facebook account

If you don’t have a Facebook account (and don’t want to register), or if you lost your account in one way or another (including if it’s hacked by the impersonator), then you can fill out this form to report the impersonating fraud profile or pages on Facebook.

Alternatively, you can report a scammer on Facebook via Messenger by doing the following:

On the Messenger App:

Open a conversation with the impersonating account or page.
Click the three vertical dots at the top right of the Messenger chatbox.
Click Report, then select Pretending to Be Someone.
Choose who they are pretending to be, and then click Submit report.

On messenger.com (desktop browser):

In the other person’s account and on the right, click Privacy and Support .
Click Report , and then select Pretending to Be Someone .
Choose who they are pretending to be, and then click Submit report .
Click Done .

What happens after you report a fraud Facebook profile or page?

After you report a scam profile or page, Facebook will manually review your report and take the appropriate action.

According to Facebook, your name and personal information will be kept private during such reports, and they will not divulge your information with the alleged impersonator you’re reporting. So, you don’t have to worry about this issue.

In an ideal scenario, Facebook will confirm that the account is impersonating you (or someone else) and will immediately take the required steps toward removing the profile or page. However, how long the actual process will take may vary, and unfortunately, Facebook isn’t clear about the actual review process and how long it may take.

After you’ve filed a report, Facebook may also advise you to block the impersonating account from your profile or page to prevent them from collecting more information from your page to use on this fraud profile or page.

What if you don’t hear back?

If you submit a report for fraud on Facebook on your page/Profile and you don’t hear any feedback after 48 hours, then the first thing you should do is not panic and try resubmitting the form.

Don’t forget that there’s always the possibility that your report form wasn’t submitted properly, or there might have been technical errors, so your form wasn’t properly received by Facebook.

Unfortunately, Facebook doesn’t offer phone-based customer support, so you can’t report a scam on Facebook or follow up the report via a phone call. While Facebook does have two operational phone numbers: 650-543-4800 and 650-308-7300, dialing these numbers will prompt a pre-recorded message advising you about Facebook’s online support. If you are still not sure, you can refer to Facebook’s Help Center page for more information, so you can figure out your options.

Keep in mind, however, that there’s always the possibility that the Facebook support team simply needs more time to evaluate whether the impersonation or other trademark infringements actually occurred, in which case you will need to be patient.

How to get your Facebook page verified

Another layer of protection against impersonation on Facebook is by getting a verification stick for your page, the famous blue tick on your profile or page. This way, your clients or customers can more easily recognize your authentic page. Even if the imposter page or profile is not taken down yet after the Facebook fraud reporting, your customers will know it’s a fraudulent Facebook page since it doesn’t have the blue tick.

You can request a Blue Verification page here by following these steps:

You’ll need a copy of official government-issued photo identification (i.e., passport, driver’s license, recent utility bill) to prove your connection to the business.
Complete the form by following the on-screen instructions.
At the bottom of the form, on the Please share why your account should be verified section, write a few sentences explaining why your account should be verified. Provide relevant links that show interest in the account (i.e., reviews) if necessary.
Submit the form.

Facebook will send you a notification when it reviews your verification request, and the verification process can take anywhere between 48 hours if you are lucky to up to 45 days. During this period, before your application is either approved or rejected, you are not allowed to submit another request.

Finding the scammer/impersonator

After you’ve reported the fraud Facebook profile or page, can you find out the culprit behind it?

Unfortunately, Facebook will not reveal the identity of the perpetrator even after they’ve taken down the page or profile for privacy purposes. In most cases, you also won’t be given access to the impersonating account or page even if you are the legitimate trademark owner.

So, if you really want to find who’s behind the attack, you have to do it on your own, and while it can be challenging, it’s not impossible to do.

Here are a few pointers:

If the profile or page lists any contact information, try reaching out to it and try to find any contact information that can be used to track them. For example, if the page sells (fake) products, you may try purchasing something and ask them to deliver the goods (and the package may contain their address).
If they happen to list any URL or link in the Facebook profile or page, open the website and trace the contact details. The website’s contact information may be able to help you in tracing the culprit.

If the impersonation attempt has caused you any kind of financial loss or otherwise, it might be worth it to pursue the real culprit and take legal action. Red Points can help provide the data needed to file an official UDRP complaint in the event of legal disputes.

What’s next

Red Points’ advanced Brand Protection Software is designed to help brands protect their online reputation and the integrity of their trademarks, copyrights, and other forms of intellectual property.

While dealing with trademark infringement, reporting a scammer on Facebook, and taking down fake accounts can be quite complex, Red Points’ Social Media Protection solution can help in gathering evidence and automatically sending takedown notices. There is no longer any need to manually search for impersonators or waste time trying to track down individuals that are intentionally trying to stay hidden after they’ve gotten away with a scam that’s hurt your reputation.

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Unexpected messages on social media about investing are almost always scams

With so many people on social media, it’s no surprise that scammers are there, too. A scammer might, for example, send you a message on Facebook, LinkedIn, or WhatsApp offering a chance to invest in cryptocurrency . But there’s no investment opportunity — just a scammer trying to take your money.

Here’s what happens next. If you reply, the scammer will say they’ve made lots of money investing in Bitcoin or another cryptocurrency. And they can get you a special opportunity that guarantees big returns with little or no risk. But these are all lies designed to convince you and get your money.

But let’s say you decide to invest. The scammer will then send you a link to a site or app where you can “invest” and see your account “grow.” The investment website they steer you to will look real, but it’s really fake, and so are their promises. And once the scammer’s gotten as much as they think they can get from you, they’ll shut down your “account” and vanish, leaving you with nothing.

If you get an unexpected message on social media about an investment opportunity, don’t reply. It’s a scam. Know this:

Unexpected messages on social media about investment opportunities almost always lead to scams. Don’t reply. Scammers like social media because they can be anonymous or pretend to be someone they’re not.
All investments have risks. Don’t believe anyone who says you can earn a lot of money on an investment with little or no risk. Investments always involve risk — there are no guaranteed returns.
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has advice on investing and avoiding fraud. Visit Investor.gov for more.

Report investment scams and fraud to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and to the SEC at sec.gov/tcr .

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The purpose of this blog and its comments section is to inform readers about Federal Trade Commission activity, and share information to help them avoid, report, and recover from fraud, scams, and bad business practices. Your thoughts, ideas, and concerns are welcome, and we encourage comments. But keep in mind, this is a moderated blog. We review all comments before they are posted, and we won’t post comments that don’t comply with our commenting policy. We expect commenters to treat each other and the blog writers with respect.

We won’t post off-topic comments, repeated identical comments, or comments that include sales pitches or promotions.
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We don't edit comments to remove objectionable content, so please ensure that your comment contains none of the above. The comments posted on this blog become part of the public domain. To protect your privacy and the privacy of other people, please do not include personal information. Opinions in comments that appear in this blog belong to the individuals who expressed them. They do not belong to or represent views of the Federal Trade Commission.

Why isn't their restrictions on Servers to have a phone number that works and abuse email that they do something about clients who are spamming emails.

I get over 50 emails a day and most are from Amazon users now or Google. Neither do anything; also there are ways to report in a format for others and they do not even work I tried for 40 mins. to report one and used to have Twitter to exposed them. It should be mandatory to have a phone number not only works on abuse line and a person answering in during business hours to actually do something.

Also that if you donate or purchase from a company they cannot sell, give way, leak consumer's emails as a requirement to purchase or donating. It should be an option.

Thank you FTC for sending out these relevant, informative scam alerts directly to the public - an outstanding initiative & program.

In reply to Thank you FTC for sending… by Lou Bornstein

Ditto-- this is probably one of the "government intrusions" that some parties would like to get rid of...

A variation of this scam is when the opportunity to invest comes from a known friend's account. The friend's account has been hacked, and the spammer posts as the person indicating that they are newly graduated from a course on crypto investing and showing people who have made considerable profit on their investments. A reverse search on the photos easily finds variations of the same photo (and text) on other profiles.

Those scammers keeping send me, my Netflix Acc. Sirius Acc. and many things more; to try to get me. I send that email to SPAN. I never open. When they call me, saying they are from the Social Security or IRS I hang up. Because I know they are Scammers. All Companys, Banks, Credit Cards SSA, IRS, say to Customers. We never call you, if you have any problems; you call us. Also, they Scammers on tools, or any products; offer low-cost stuffs. But is not trues.

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Fake news investment scam poses as Cyprus Mail

A fake news scam which has circulated on Facebook in recent days has posed as the Cyprus Mail in an attempt to lure people in to an investment scam.

The origin of the scam is a Facebook page by the name of “NT Plus”, which posted a link to a website by the name of “Ananda News”, which itself poses as the Cyprus Mail , using the newspaper’s logo.

Nothing in the Facebook post nor in the article is true, nor does anything in it vaguely resemble reality.

The post claims that Cyprus’ President Nikos Christodoulides, erroneously spelt as “Nicos”, “was arrested after his recent interview”.

Upon clicking the link, users are greeted with the even more alarming news that Christodoulides’ “life is in danger”.

The article claims that “the shocking truth has come out live on air and Nicos (sic) Christodoulides himself deeply regrets it, but things have gone too far. Now him (sic) life is in danger!”

It then claims that “the words that ‘accidentally’ came out of Nico’s (sic) mouth” led to “many viewers … sending messages like a person possessed”.

“Nicos (sic) started receiving threats against him and yesterday he was beaten up and taken to hospital,” it added.

The article then contains a “transcript” of an “interview” in which “Christodoulides” gives instructions on how people can get rich quick by signing up to a scam website by the name of “Bitapp24”.

The article then claims the “interviewer” asked “Christodoulides”, “what will Poles who can’t afford the minimum deposit do?”, with “Christodoulides” responding that he was broke during the pandemic, with “not much work”.

For the avoidance of doubt, the real-life Nikos Christodoulides was foreign minister during the pandemic .

The article then claims that “the head of the bank called and demanded an immediate halt to the broadcast”.

The next part of the article then claims that a fictitious “ Cyprus Mail editor” by the name of “Jeremy Bowen” had used the “investment platform” and made over €3,000, before withdrawing €2,000 “to buy a gift for my wife”.

The real-life Jeremy Bowen works for the BBC and not the Cyprus Mail and has done so continuously since 1984.

While amusing, the article is clearly not grounded in any truth, and the Cyprus Mail of course does not recommend that its readers sign up to “investment” scams. And of course Nikos Christodoulides has not been arrested.

Scammers posing as the Cyprus Mail is the latest in a series of online scams which have appeared on Cyprus’ social media of late, with the police having issued a warning on Saturday regarding scammers pretending to be social media influencer and member of the European parliament Fidias Panayiotou .

The police called on the public to be “extremely careful” and to not believe such posts, as they are scams.

They also urged people who wish to make investments to only do so through registered and licensed financial institutions.

Tom joined the Mail in 2023. An award-winning journalist, he speaks four languages fluently, watches his local football team home and away, and is an avid traveller.

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What is mortgage fraud?

Types of mortgage fraud.

Warning signs

How to protect yourself from mortgage fraud

Legal consequences of mortgage fraud, mortgage fraud.

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate mortgages to write unbiased product reviews.

Scams targeting homeowners facing foreclosure are some of the most common types of mortgage fraud.
Both borrowers and homeowners can commit mortgage fraud — or they can be victims of it.
Lying on your mortgage application can also be a form of mortgage fraud.

Mortgage fraud is a serious offense, and it's one that borrowers and homeowners can both commit and be victims of.

When fraud is committed by mortgage borrowers, it's often because they wanted to buy a home but believed their finances would prevent them from qualifying for a mortgage.

Things like lying on your mortgage application or misrepresenting your income to your mortgage lender are considered mortgage fraud and come with serious legal repercussions.

But borrowers and homeowners can also be victims of fraudsters looking to profit off of individuals going through a confusing or stressful process. Homeowners who are behind on their mortgage payments or are facing foreclosure are especially vulnerable, as some of the most common mortgage fraud schemes target distressed homeowners.

Mortgage fraud involves providing false or deceptive information to a lender in order to get a mortgage . The FBI defines mortgage fraud as "a lie that influences a bank's decision." Scams that target homeowners facing foreclosure also fit the FBI's definition of mortgage fraud.

Mortgage fraud falls into two categories: fraud for profit and fraud for housing. Fraud for profit is often committed by people who work in the mortgage industry, such as loan officers, appraisers, or real estate attorneys. The aim of scams that fall under this umbrella is to make money. The FBI prioritizes investigating cases involving fraud for profit.

Fraud for housing is typically committed by borrowers. Fraud for housing, as the name suggests, involves providing false information to mortgage lenders in order to buy a house.

Here are some examples of common mortgage fraud schemes:

Income fraud

Income fraud involves inflating your income on your mortgage application with the goal of being able to buy a home for a larger amount than you'd typically qualify for. This is a type of fraud for housing.

Occupancy fraud

Borrowers typically get lower interest rates and can make lower down payments on properties they intend to live in as their primary residences.

If an individual intends to use a home as a second home or investment property but tells their lender they'll be using it as their first home, they've committed occupancy fraud.

Appraisal fraud

Appraisal fraud occurs when an appraiser doesn't value a property according to its actual market value. Because lenders won't lend more than what an appraisal says a home is worth, appraisals may be artificially inflated so that the market value matches the home price . Unscrupulous appraisers can also artificially lower the market value of a home so that the purchaser can buy the home at a lower price and then turn around and sell it for a profit.

Straw buyer schemes

This type of fraud occurs when someone buys a property for someone who would be unable to qualify for it themselves. The buyer does not intend to use or live in the home, but pass it off to the other party after closing.

Warning signs of mortgage fraud

With rising mortgage rates and high home prices, buying a home has become less affordable. "Historically, fraud becomes a bigger issue for the mortgage industry during times of strong or weak mortgage application activity," says Nick Larson, senior director of strategy and business development at LexisNexis Risk Solutions . "This can tempt consumers to falsify income, liabilities, and occupancy in order to improve the chances of securing a higher-dollar mortgage."

Financial institutions monitor for signs of fraudulent activity by carefully verifying all the information they receive from applicants.

Suspicious documentation

Financial documents can easily be forged or falsified, so lenders have processes in place for verifying the information on these is correct. For example, a lender will verify the information you provide about your income by requesting your tax transcript directly from the IRS. Some lenders also have the ability to pull information about your assets directly from your bank with your permission.

Unusually high appraisals or far away properties

Lenders will also look for suspicious activity related to the specific transaction. For example, if you're buying a house to be used as your primary residence that's several hours away from where you work, and you're not a remote worker, that can be a red flag. Or if a home appraises for a significantly larger amount than what other similar homes in the area are valued at, that would call for further investigation, too.

Pressure to commit fraud

Players in a transaction may feel pressured to get a deal done or a loan closed, which can also lead to mortgage fraud in some cases.

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to protect yourself against potential mortgage fraud. You can:

Verify information

Don't guess on your mortgage application. Verify every piece of information you enter, and make sure you have official documentation to back it up.

If you're unsure of what an application is asking for or what documentation is needed, ask your loan officer. It's better to ask questions than to provide something incorrect and face future fraud charges.

Work with reputable professionals

Homeowners who are behind on their payments and at risk of foreclosure need to be especially vigilant, as they're more likely to be targets of mortgage fraud.

"Don't engage unsolicited businesses, meaning anybody that you haven't reached out to first," Angel Hernandez, vice president of Industry and Regulatory Affairs at Stavvy , says.

If a company advertises help with loan modifications or loss mitigation, check with your lender or servicer first to find out if that company is reputable.

You can ensure you're working with reputable companies by using a HUD-approved housing counselor. These counselors offer free or low-cost advice. If you're approached by a company that charges large fees to help you, they likely aren't reputable.

To find a HUD-approved housing counselor, you can search online or call 1-800-569-4287.

You can also avoid scams by working proactively with your mortgage lender or servicer. Homeowners can often be afraid of talking to their lender when they're behind on mortgage payments , but the lender is often best situated to help you avoid a loss.

Hernandez also says that although borrowers are often hesitant to reach out to them, lenders and servicers want to help their borrowers resolve delinquencies. "A success for the servicer is directly tied to the success of the homeowners that they are serving," Hernandez says.

Report suspicious activity

There are a few different entities you can reach out to for reporting mortgage fraud, according to the Department of Justice.

To make a report with the FBI, contact your nearest field office or call 1-800-225-5324. You can also make a report online.

The Department of Housing and Urban Development accepts tips via its hotline. Call 1-800-347-3735.

If you believe you're being targeted by a foreclosure-related scam, you can reach out to the Homeownership Preservation Foundation's HOPE Hotline at 1-888-995-HOPE (4673).

The Federal Trade Commission also has a website where you can report fraud .

Mortgage fraud can have serious consequences, both legally and financially. Mortgage fraud penalties include:

Criminal penalties

Depending on the amount of money involved, mortgage fraud can constitute a felony. If you're convicted of mortgage fraud, you could face prison time. According to the United States Sentencing Commission, the average sentence for mortgage fraud in 2021 was 14 months. Nearly three-quarters of those convicted were sentenced to prison.

Civil penalties

You also may owe fines for mortgage fraud. These can include both federal and state fines, ranging from a few thousand dollars to up to $1 million.

Impact on credit and finances

Finally, mortgage fraud can limit your financial options moving forward. Lenders will be unlikely to extend a mortgage or other loan once you've been charged with mortgage fraud.

Mortgage fraud FAQs

Mortgage fraud involves intentionally falsifying information on a mortgage application to obtain a loan.

Common types of mortgage fraud include income fraud, occupancy fraud, appraisal fraud, and straw buyer schemes.

Look for warning signs such as suspicious documentation, unusually high appraisals, and pressure to commit fraud.

Report any suspicious activity to the appropriate authorities and work with reputable professionals to verify information.

Consequences can include criminal and civil penalties, as well as negative impacts on your credit and finances.

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Not Everyone Loses Weight on Ozempic

Danielle Rosas had tried all the usual avenues to lose weight—modifying her diet, increasing her exercise—but the weight always came back. In 2020, she turned to Ozempic . She was 225 pounds at the time. “My weight has fluctuated a lot throughout my adulthood,” says Rosas, now 36.

After three months of injecting the drug once a week, she’d lost about 5 percent of her body weight, around 15 pounds. She was disappointed. She had hoped to lose more—in trials, patients had lost three times as much, although over a much longer period. What’s worse, she felt nauseous and generally unwell a lot of the time. She thought the side effects weren’t worth the little weight she had lost, so she decided to go off the drug.

Rosas’ case illustrates the reality of new anti-obesity drugs: They don’t work equally well for everyone. Semaglutide, which goes by the brand names Ozempic and Wegovy , has shown around 15 percent weight loss in clinical trials, while tirzepatide—sold as Mounjaro and Zepbound —has achieved around 20 percent. But those are averages, and in the real world, drugs don’t always perform as well as they do in carefully controlled trials.

“Everyone expects these medications to be magic,” says Hans Schmidt, director of the Center for Weight Loss & Metabolic Health and chief of bariatric surgery at Hackensack University Medical Center in New Jersey. In fact, people have a wide range of responses to anti-obesity medicines.

While many people do remarkably well on them, a subset lose little to no weight on new GLP-1 drugs—so-called because they mimic a naturally occurring hormone in the body called GLP-1 that’s involved in regulating blood sugar, appetite, and digestion. In a trial of semaglutide , about a third of people lost less than 10 percent of their weight; in a study for tirzepatide 16 percent of people on the highest dose lost less than 10 percent of their weight. In the same trials, about 14 percent of participants on semaglutide lost less than 5 percent of body weight; for those on the highest dose of tirzepatide, that figure was 9 percent.

That tracks with what Schmidt is seeing at his practice. He says around 15 percent of his patients don’t respond well to GLP-1s. Of course, part of it comes down to whether patients are able to stay on the medications and remember to take them every week. Some people, like Rosas, aren’t able to tolerate the side effects. “If you’re not seeing the result and you’re getting the side effects, there’s no reason to be on the medication,” Schmidt says.

But among those who do stick it out, some individuals still don’t shed the pounds. “I’m on week 10, zero weight loss,” said one woman on Tiktok in reply to a video on so-called nonresponders. “I’ve been on it for almost a year and have only lost 10 lbs,” said another. “I’ve been on the shots since Jan. Now on the highest dose and have lost nothing,” read another comment.

The 19 Best Movies on Amazon Prime Right Now

It’s not clear why some people on these drugs lose a lot of weight while others don’t lose any. “We still don’t understand most of the variation in response,” says Ewan Pearson, professor of diabetic medicine at the University of Dundee in Scotland. There are a few known predictors of how patients will fare, though. For instance, women tend to lose more weight than men on GLP-1 drugs, possibly because they have a different fat distribution compared to men, or because their smaller average size could mean higher exposure to the drug.

And while GLP-1 drugs were first approved as a diabetes treatment to improve blood sugar levels, they’re less likely to produce significant weight loss in people with type 2 diabetes. Researchers have suggested genetics, altered microbiomes, and other medications that promote weight gain as possible reasons for this. “A lot depends on a person’s physiology and biology. We can’t expect that a drug will be a one-size-fits-all for everyone,” says Amy Rothberg, an endocrinologist at the University of Michigan.

GLP-1 drugs lead to weight loss by slowing the movement of food in the stomach and by interacting with receptors in the brain to promote a feeling of fullness. Some people taking them report less “food noise”—they no longer have cravings or think about food all the time. As a result, they eat less. Patients start on a low dose that’s gradually increased each week. Schmidt says some people may not respond to the lower doses but do eventually see weight loss as the medication is ramped up.

Without lifestyle changes, these medications are likely to be less effective for weight loss. Novo Nordisk, which makes Ozempic and Wegovy, and Eli Lilly, which makes Mounjaro and Zepbound, stress that the drugs are meant to be used alongside a healthy diet and exercise. In trials of semaglutide and tirzepatide, the medications were paired with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. Clinical trials are often the best-case scenario when it comes to a drug’s efficacy because they involve careful tracking of participants and many follow-up visits with providers. In real life, patients may not follow their weight-loss plan as diligently or see their doctor as regularly.

And while these drugs help curb appetite, they don’t magically eliminate all temptations. After all, there is a major social component to eating food. “We may eat because it looks good, tastes good, we’re in the company of others, or because it’s available,” Rothberg says. A person who has those environmental pushes or stimuli competing with the drug won’t lose as much weight as the person who doesn’t have to deal with those factors, she argues.

Differences in metabolism, or how people break down food and convert it into energy, could also be at play. A person’s age and hormone function, as well as the amount of physical activity they get, can have an effect on metabolism.

Researchers are also looking into whether genetic factors may explain some of the variability in response. In 2022, Pearson and his colleagues published a paper that identified a gene called ARRB1 that seems to be involved in glucose control. When they looked at genetic data from more than 4,500 adults, they found that people with certain variants in this gene have lower blood sugar levels while taking GLP-1 drugs.

The ARRB1 gene is involved in recycling the GLP-1 receptor within the cell and returning it to the cell’s surface. It’s likely, Pearson says, that people with these variants—about 2 to 3 percent of the white population and 11 percent of Hispanics—have more of these receptors on their insulin-making pancreatic cells. Because GLP-1 drugs work by binding to these receptors, the bigger reduction in blood sugar may be explained by greater binding activity spurring more insulin production.

But in Pearson’s study, the genetic alterations weren’t connected with weight loss, meaning the effect was probably limited to the pancreas. Even so, it means that there are likely to be genetic factors that account for some of the weight loss response. And it may be that variants in multiple genes, rather than just one, drive people’s different responses. Pearson’s group is now working with researchers at the University of Montreal to study genetic factors and weight loss in people on GLP-1 drugs.

For some GLP-1 nonresponders, it could be that another mechanism is involved in their obesity, says Rehka Kumar, an endocrinologist and chief medical officer of Found, a company that provides personalized weight loss plans. “It’s possible that whatever drove them to gain weight isn’t necessarily related to the GLP-1 pathway,” she says. “They may do better on a medicine that works differently.”

Researchers at the Mayo Clinic are trying to categorize people based on their obesity “phenotype,” or the behavioral components behind the disease. Mayo gastroenterologist Andres Acosta and his colleagues have used machine-learning methods to describe four major types of obesity: “hungry brain,” in which people never feel full; “hungry gut,” where people eat until they are full but feel hungry again soon after; “emotional hungry,” which are people who eat to cope with emotional issues or to reward themselves, regardless of whether they’re hungry; and “slow burn,” people who don’t burn calories fast enough. Research by Acosta has shown that people with the hungry-gut type lose more weight on GLP-1 drugs than the other types.

Nonresponders may not have to wait long for other options. GLP-1 drugs only seem to be getting more effective. Whereas semaglutide targets just the GLP-1 receptor, the newer tirzepatide targets GLP-1 plus another receptor, GIP. Drugmakers are studying whether new drugs that target more than one receptor involved in obesity could boost weight loss. “As we get more sophisticated with these gut hormone combinations, I think we’ll be able to see more responsiveness in the population,” Kumar says.

Updated 7-2-2024 3:00 pm BST: The spelling of Andres Acosta’s name was corrected.

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How to report a Facebook account or Page that's pretending to be me or
Impostor accounts and Pages aren't allowed on Facebook. How to report a Facebook account or Page that's pretending to be me or someone else | Facebook Help Center Help Center
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To get the link for a Facebook profile, Page, group or event: Enter the name of the profile, Page, group or event in the search box at the top of any page on Facebook, and click . Click on the name of the profile, Page, group or event you're trying to report. Copy the link (URL) found in your browser's address bar.
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How To Report a Facebook Scammer. Let your close family and friends know about this Facebook scammer list. Feel free to share this article if it was helpful. Meanwhile, you can report FB scammers and any other suspicious activity to both Facebook and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) using the two links below: Report to Facebook Here
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Facebook Scams Are Everywhere. Here's How To Stay Safe
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If you think you may have interacted with a scammer, block him or her and report the account to Facebook at [email protected]. Guard your financial information. Be wary of texts or email asking for ...
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To report an account on Facebook, follow these simple steps: Go to the profile of the person who sent you the message. Click on the three dots in the upper right-hand corner of the person's profile. Click "Report". Select "It's a scam" from the drop-down menu. Click "Send".
How to report a Facebook account or Page that's pretending to be me or
Impostor accounts and Pages aren't allowed on Facebook.
10 Facebook Marketplace Scams to Watch Out for; How to Avoid, Report
Dave Johnson. If you have a listing and a potential buyer appears to be a scammer, you can also report that individual to Facebook. On the right-hand side of the listing, there's a module titled ...
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Unfortunately, Facebook doesn't offer phone-based customer support, so you can't report a scam on Facebook or follow up the report via a phone call. While Facebook does have two operational phone numbers: 650-543-4800 and 650-308-7300, dialing these numbers will prompt a pre-recorded message advising you about Facebook's online support.
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In this bank scam, many fraudsters create fake giveaways to fool users into sharing personal information like a credit card number or clicking a link that could download a virus onto their phones ...
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To make a report with the FBI, contact your nearest field office or call 1-800-225-5324. You can also make a report online. The Department of Housing and Urban Development accepts tips via its ...
Not Everyone Loses Weight on Ozempic
For many patients, GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy lead to substantial weight loss. But some see much less benefit, and researchers are trying to figure out why.