I have been noticing a lot more spam posts hitting my friends wall lately so I think it is time for another public service announcement about protecting your eSelf.
#1 Rule: Never download anything from an email you get from facebook. Facebook will never send you something to download and no one sends you your password in a ZIP, EXE, or any file.
Why is this important? Anything you download, or worse, execute, on your local machines has an extremely high potential of comprising your machine at the highest level. The worst case is that they install a Key-Logging application that captures all of your keystrokes, like PayPal login, Facebook Login, and even Bank and credit Card information. So never download anything from an untrusted source and never assume you are safe just because you have anti-virus software.
#2 Rule: If you get a message saying you need to Like or Add an application in order to view the message or Image, it is a spammer trying to steal your personal info. So only Like or Add something you really Like or find useful. If you accidentally do, go into your Facebook Application settings and revoke access immediately.
Why is this important? When ever you Like a Fan Page or add an Application, you are giving away access to all of your personal info you have stored on Facebook. Since most people have not taken the time to set their Privacy rules up correctly, they are in for a world of hurt. And worse, these spammers will post junk on your wall trying to lure your friend network into doing the same thing you did.
#3 Rule: Always be suspicious even if it comes from a trusted source.
Why is this important? It is better to suspect that their account was hijacked and ask than to follow through with the spammers intentions. Some people might get irritated that yo suspect their post to be spam if it isn't, but better safe than sorry. If they really want their post to be seen they should take more care to make it less spammy looking in the first place.
#4 Rule: Only put information online you are comfortable having public.
Why is this important? Even if you are careful you can never be too sure that the site that has your information will not get hacked or change their privacy policy and begin selling your information.
And remember, once your data is out there, it's out there and your not getting it back.
Please share this and help break the cycle. I for one hate seeing my friends and colleagues being taken to the cleaners over something so easily prevented.
Public Service Announcement brought you by Idea Sponge.
