Beware these “too good to be true” Facebook ads

Authored by:

President

Jimmy Tran

Jimmy is a certified network and systems engineer with over 13 years of experience in building and managing IT infrastructure. He created LevelUp MSP to bring unique solutions to the world of IT service providers for small and medium businesses by focusing on delivering proactive virtual CIO services.

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We’ve all been there. You’re scrolling through your Facebook feed, and an ad pops up promising to help you grow your business with some AI-powered software… Sounds tempting, doesn’t it? Without giving it much thought, you click to see what it’s about.

Bad news: This is a big red flag.

Cyber criminals have been found creating Facebook ads that promise to supercharge your productivity and revenue. But when you click, there’s a catch. The software they ask you to install is actually malware (malicious software). And when it’s on your computer it can give the criminals access to your Facebook data, including your ad budget.

You might think, “Who’d fall for such an obvious trick?” But let’s be real. When you’re a small business owner juggling a million things at once, it’s easy to take the bait. And these hackers are smart. They know how to make their phony offers look legit, and how to hide the malware on your computer so it’s hard to spot.

How to Stay Safe: Tips and Best Practices

Be Skeptical of Offers That Seem Too Good to Be True

If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Always take a moment to verify the legitimacy of the ad. Google the advertiser, check their reviews, and see if they have a legitimate online presence.

Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Secure your Facebook account by enabling two-factor authentication. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second device to verify your identity. It’s a simple step that can make a huge difference.

Keep Your Software Up-to-Date

Ensure that your operating system and all software applications are up-to-date. Regular updates often include patches for security vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malware.

Invest in Good Cyber Security Tools

Consider investing in reliable anti-malware and antivirus software. These tools can help detect and prevent malware from infecting your computer.

Educate Yourself and Your Team

Knowledge is power. Stay informed about the latest cyber threats and educate your employees on how to recognize and avoid them. Regular training sessions can keep everyone on the same page and enhance your overall security posture.

Regularly Monitor Your Accounts

Keep an eye on your Facebook account and ad budget. Regular monitoring can help you spot any suspicious activity early, allowing you to take immediate action.

Real-World Example: The Importance of Vigilance

Researchers recently uncovered a scheme involving malicious Facebook ads. They found several Vietnamese keywords embedded in the malicious script, highlighting the sophistication and global nature of these cyber threats. This serves as a stark reminder of the importance of good cyber security.

Prevention is Better Than Cure

Running a business is a juggling act, and adding another ball to the mix might feel overwhelming. But think of it this way: Would you rather spend a little time now securing your account or a lot of time later dealing with the fallout of a breach? As the saying goes, “Prevention is better than cure.” So, stay safe, stay alert, and protect what you’ve worked so hard to build. If you need some help doing that, get in touch.

By following these tips and best practices, you can safeguard your business against these sneaky attacks and ensure that your Facebook feed remains a source of inspiration and growth, not a gateway to cyber threats. Stay vigilant, and don’t let the scammers win!