Spam on Facebook is an unfortunate reality that many users have to deal with. Spam can take many forms, from fake friend requests to sketchy looking links posted on your feed. While it may be tempting to click on spam links out of curiosity, doing so can open up your computer and Facebook account to security risks. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what exactly happens when you click on Facebook spam, and provide tips on how to protect yourself.
What is Facebook spam?
Facebook spam refers to unwanted, unsolicited posts that show up on your Facebook feed or in messages. Spam posts often include:
– Clickbait headlines (“You won’t believe what happened next!”)
– Suspicious links
– Fake friend requests from accounts you don’t know
– Messages pushing you to buy something or give personal information
The goal of most Facebook spam is to get you to click on a link. The link then either takes you to a sketchy website, downloads malware onto your computer, or steals your Facebook login credentials. Spammers make money by getting clicks, spreading viruses, or accessing your private data.
What happens when you click on spam
Here are some of the potential consequences of clicking on Facebook spam links or posts:
You could download malware
One of the most common outcomes is that you end up downloading malware onto your computer. Malware refers to malicious software programs like viruses, spyware, ransomware, and more. When you click a spam link, it will often automatically download files onto your computer without you even realizing it.
These malware programs can do everything from showing you annoying pop-up ads to logging your keystrokes to encrypting your files for ransom. Downloading malware puts you at risk of identity theft and other cybercrimes.
Your account may be hacked
Some Facebook spam is specifically designed to steal your Facebook login credentials. For example, you might get a message that looks like it’s from Facebook asking you to click a link to secure your account.
If you click it, you’ll be taken to a fake Facebook login page. If you enter your username and password, the scammer will gain full access to your real Facebook account. From there, they can access your personal information, post spam as you, and message your friends.
You’ll see more spam
Once you click on spam content, you’re often added to “sucker lists.” These are lists of people more likely to fall for scams and spam. As a result, you’ll start to see a lot more spam posts in your feed.
Spammers make money each time someone clicks their content. If they know you’re willing to click spam links, they’ll target you with more and more of it.
Suspicious links can infect your friends too
If your account gets hacked or you click a spam link, scammers will often use your account to target your friends next. They might post questionable links on your feed, send your friends spammy messages, or tag your friends in spam posts.
This allows them to quickly spread their links across Facebook. Even though you’re the one who clicked the initial spam link, all your friends are now at risk too.
You’ll waste time and money
While some spam links contain malware or steal accounts, others are simply annoying waste of time. For example, you might click a “fun quiz” link and be directed to a low-quality site full of ads. Or you might purchase a product promoted in a spam ad only to receive a cheap knock-off product a month later.
At best, clicking Facebook spam results in wasting time on pointless sites. At worst, you could end up spending money on scams and bogus products promoted through spam.
How to protect yourself from Facebook spam
Here are some tips to avoid falling victim to Facebook spam scams:
Don’t accept friend requests from strangers
Be wary of friend requests from people you don’t know, as these are often fake accounts used to promote spam. You can also adjust your Facebook settings to have friend requests be reviewed first before they’re accepted.
Don’t click suspicious links or attachments
Whether it’s a “free gift card” offer or an inflammatory news headline, don’t click links from unverified sources or accounts. Hover over the link first to see if the URL looks legitimate. Be extra careful about opening attachments in Facebook messages too.
Use antivirus software
Make sure you have antivirus software installed to detect and disable malware. This will help prevent your computer from infections should you accidentally click a bad link.
Turn on login notifications
To catch account hacks in progress, turn on Facebook login alerts. You’ll be notified any time someone logs into your account from a new device.
Report spam posts and accounts
Make use of Facebook’s report features if you see spam on your feed. Reporting helps Facebook identify and shut down scammer accounts.
Avoid connecting with suspicious profiles
Don’t add Facebook friends you don’t know in real life. Scammers create fake profiles to distribute spam. The more connections you have, the more exposed you are to spam.
What to do if you clicked Facebook spam
If you made the mistake of clicking on a spam post or link, here are some steps to take right away:
– Run antivirus scans to check for malware
– Change your Facebook password and turn on two-factor authentication
– Review recent posts and messages from your account for signs of hacking
– Watch out for any suspicious emails or content directed at your friends
– Report the spam link or account that you interacted with
– Inform your Facebook connections that your account was compromised, if applicable
Taking quick action helps limit the damage done from clicking on spam. Be wary of any other unusual behavior you notice on your Facebook account or computer in the days following a spam click.
Conclusion
Facebook spam is an annoying and potentially dangerous nuisance for all users. Clicking spam links or posts can lead to malware, account hacks, and wasted time and money. However, by being cautious online, using security tools, and reporting issues, you can enjoy Facebook safely without falling victim to scammers. Refrain from interacting with suspicious content, no matter how enticing spam headlines or links may seem. With good digital hygiene practices, you can avoid the headaches that come from clicking Facebook spam.