Woburn, MA – July 13, 2023 – Just one week after the launch of Meta’s new microblogging app, Threads, Kaspersky experts have discovered several deceptive tactics being used by scammers to exploit the app's growing user base. Most scams involved fake apps designed to trick users and gain unauthorized access to their accounts, personal data, and even their finances.
Threads has already amassed 100 million sign-ups. However, as is often the case with popular trends, scammers wasted no time in capitalizing on user interest.
Fraudsters have developed phishing pages that mimic a non-existent web version of Threads. Users are deceived into entering their login credentials, accidentally divulging their private information to scammers. Since Threads is linked to other Meta services, users may also face the risk of losing access to other social media accounts, namely Instagram and Facebook. Not only does this pose privacy concerns like identity theft and doxing but more worryingly, it carries financial risks. Personal banking information or even corporate finances may end up in the wrong hands, as businesses use these accounts for creating ad campaigns.
Another scam also involves fictitious service called Threads Coin, which claims to offer enhanced possibilities including within the Metaverse. Users are tempted to purchase this coin using Ethereum. However, the only outcome users experience is financial loss.
Another scheme presents users with the opportunity to generate followers for free on a new social network. They can opt for 10,000, 25,000, or 50,000 followers. Once the desired option is selected, the user is prompted to undergo a human verification process. This involves selecting one of the available options, which may include sending an SMS and potentially winning a special prize. However, to claim the prize, the user may be required to make a payment. Unfortunately, the user ends up losing money and never receives the promised prize. Furthermore, the scheme encourages users to share the scheme via SMS, unknowingly helping spread the scam.
“Scammers have mastered the art of capitalizing on trendy topics, emphasizing the importance of maintaining constant alertness,” said Olga Svistunova, security expert at Kaspersky. “The prevalence of scams surrounding the popular Threads app serves as a stark reminder of the risks we face in the digital realm. From deceptive schemes to data collection tactics, these fraudsters spare no effort in compromising your personal and financial security. To safeguard ourselves, we must adopt a skeptical mindset, scrutinize suspicious activities, and prioritize cybersecurity measures. By staying cautious amidst the allure of trendy topics, we can fortify our defenses and navigate the digital landscape with confidence.”
To stay protected and explore new technologies in a safe way, Kaspersky experts also recommend:
· Be cautious when downloading software from the internet, especially if it's from a third-party website. Always try to download software from the official website of the company or service that you are using.
· Verify that the website you are downloading software from is legitimate. Look for the padlock icon in the address bar and make sure that the website's URL starts with "https://" to ensure that the website is secure.
· Use strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts and enable two-factor authentication whenever possible. This can help protect your accounts from being compromised by attackers. Use a Kaspersky Password Manager to make using secure passwords easier.
· Be wary of suspicious links or emails from unknown sources. Scammers often use social engineering techniques to trick users into clicking on links or downloading malicious software.
· Use a reliable security solution and keep it up-to-date. Kaspersky Premium is armed with the latest intelligence and can help detect and remove any malware that may be on your computer.
About Kaspersky
Kaspersky is a global cybersecurity and digital privacy company founded in 1997. Kaspersky’s deep threat intelligence and security expertise is constantly transforming into innovative security solutions and services to protect businesses, critical infrastructure, governments and consumers around the globe. The company’s comprehensive security portfolio includes leading endpoint protection and specialized security solutions and services, as well as Cyber Immune solutions to fight sophisticated and evolving digital threats. Over 400 million users are protected by Kaspersky technologies and we help over 220,000 corporate clients protect what matters most to them. Learn more at usa.kaspersky.com.
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Sawyer Van Horn
sawyer.vanhorn@Kaspersky.com
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