This scam targets people who use Facebook Messenger.

Adverts by text or email or on Facebook Messenger tell you that you must update to the latest version of the Messenger APP for security reasons.

There is a link to click to update and this leads to a page that looks like Facebook and asks for your login and password.

If you provide those details then they are forwarded to the scammer.

The page may then claim your APP has been updated or ask for bank details to verify who you are.

This scam started in mid 2020 but has been growing ever since. The criminals involved have created thousands of fake Facebook profiles to aid this scam.

Some versions of the adverts offer incentives to get people to click the link such as a monetary reward or cryptocurrency.

Never click on such links in unsolicited emails – especially shortened links where you cannot see what website the link would take you to.

If you want to check if you have the latest genuine version of Messenger then go to your APP store which will show you the latest and whether you need to update.

If you have any experiences with these scams do let me know, by email.