The scheme can be adapted to target other countries at any time

Dec 20, 2011 15:16 GMT  ·  By

Indian Internet users are promised a free mobile airtime recharge of 100 RS ($2 or 1.4 EUR), but instead of the prize they wound up with a stolen Facebook account.

Symantec experts came across the hoax. This starts with a simple pop-up window that promises the free recharge. Once the OK button is hit, the victim is immediately taken to a website that almost perfectly replicates the Facebook log-in page.

To make the dull Facebook page more entertaining, the hackers filled the empty spaces with big colorful messages that make false claims.

“Facebook helps you get free recharge on any Indian mobile operator listed below and help u to call and text any one for free to people in your life,” reads an advertisement on the page.

Wireless carrier logos are also presented to make the entire operation more realistic.

Since these malicious sites can always be adapted to target users worldwide, I advise you to be on the lookout for any similar attempts.