Warning: Scammers Target Crime-Related Videos on Social Media
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
760 news media
Imperial County
01/28/2025
760 news media is issuing a public warning regarding a rise in scam comments appearing on social media platforms, particularly under videos involving crime or public safety incidents. These comments are part of phishing scams designed to steal personal information from unsuspecting users.
The scam comments often include phrases such as:
“sad this happened, the officer released a video of the incident.”
These comments may include links that appear to be from legitimate sources like ABC News or government agencies, but they are actually fraudulent. Clicking on these links can expose users to identity theft, malware, and other cybersecurity threats.
What You Need to Know
Do not click on links in suspicious comments, even if they seem credible.
Verify the source by going directly to official websites rather than clicking shared links.
Report suspicious activity to the social media platform to help stop the spread of these scams.
How to Protect Yourself
1. Avoid interacting with unsolicited or suspicious links in comments or private messages.
2. Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication on your accounts.
3. Regularly review your social media privacy settings to reduce visibility to scammers.
4. Stay informed about the latest online scams by following trusted cybersecurity resources.
What to Do If You Clicked a Scam Link
Change your passwords immediately for all critical accounts.
Monitor financial accounts and credit reports for suspicious activity.
Run an updated malware scan on your device to remove potential threats.
For additional information, or to report scams, please contact:
Contact Information
Phone: (760) 550 - 2779
Email: thomasberry@760news.org
Stay vigilant, and thank you for helping us protect our community.
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