Users are tricked into installing rogue applications

Dec 14, 2012 23:31 GMT  ·  By

Some posts are making the rounds on Facebook, claiming that the social media network has partnered up with Walmart and they’re giving away free $1,000 (764 Euro) gift cards.

“Hey friends, I got a $1000 Gift Card from WALMART as a Christmas Gift! Get it right away! -> bil.ly,” the malicious Facebook posts read.

Facecrooks reports that users who fall for it and click on the link are taken to a website where they’re presented with instructions on how to provide their authentication tokens.

Then they’re asked to install a bogus Walmart Facebook app and participate in all sorts of surveys.

By doing what the scammers ask of you, you’re actually allowing them to post on your Facebook timeline. Furthermore, by participating in the surveys, you’re helping them make a profit.

As always, I advise users to be extra cautious when presented with such offers.