Twitter Scams & Pfishing
I also want to make sure you're aware that there is some seriously frustrating stuff happening on Twitter right now. Please do not click on any links that you receive via Direct Message (even if they come from someone you know). And, if you DO click through a link, don't log into your Twitter account from the page you land on.
It's all an effort to gain access to your Twitter account.
Here's the definition of Pfishing from Wikipedia.org
Phishing is the criminally fraudulent process of attempting to acquire sensitive information such as usernames, passwords and credit card details by masquerading as a trustworthy entity in an electronic communication. Communications purporting to be from popular social web sites, auction sites, online payment processors or IT administrators are commonly used to lure the unsuspecting public. Phishing is typically carried out by e-mail or instant messaging,[1] and it often directs users to enter details at a fake website whose look and feel are almost identical to the legitimate one.
It's the same as getting an email from your bank – or any bank, including paypal. You have NO idea if the email is actually coming from your bank. You should always assume it's not.
Do NOT click through the link in your email to log in. Go to a new window, and type in the URL directly. Otherwise, you have no idea who you're giving your logins (and bank funds) to.
It's funny (funny, meaning odd, not humorous) because I'd just written a report about how to protect your online business. I just wish it wasn't so timely. 🙁
I wrote it because I discovered that my coaching clients and friends were gambling with their businesses and didn't even realize it. Scary stuff, if your online business is feeding you and your family.
Anyway, I don't have a big spiel. If you're interested in protecting your online business, you can learn more about it here:
How to Avoid Disaster in your Online Business: Important Info to Know to Avoid Both Personal Loss & Financial Loss
Warmly,
Nicole Dean
Susanne
February 24, 2010 at 1:22 pmExcellent point Nicole and thank you for the reminder. Twitter DM is such a great feature, but spam and now these pfishing attacks render it almost useless. I wish there was some sort of spam filter in place.
On a similar note, I don’t care for auto DMs when you follow someone either. All they do is clutter my twitter inbox and cause me to miss actual messages.
Melody
February 24, 2010 at 11:22 pmI’ve hardly been on twitter this past month or so, I’ve been busy with more important stuff. When I do pop in I’ve noticed a huge influx of spammers and questionable followers. It doesn’t surprise me that it’s attracted these type of “marketers.” I use that term rather loosely!
It’s certainly wise to avoid following any links on twitter unless it someone you know well and trust.
Lain Ehmann
February 25, 2010 at 9:06 amSusanne, I completely agree — I HATE the auto-dm’s. An auto thank you is not a thank you at all, in my opinion.
Melissa Galt
February 26, 2010 at 4:19 pmHey Nicole,
So glad you addressed this, I’ve been warning my followers and newbies because it has gotten absolutely overwhelming with the spam DM’s of late. So glad I could share your in depth commentary.
Going Farther Together, Melissa
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February 27, 2010 at 12:11 amI agree that instead of clicking a link directly in your inbox, might as well copy the link on a new window or tab. Although certain sites like Facebook will ask you to change your password if they detected that you’ve been a victim of phishing. Still why take the risk.
Chrissy
March 11, 2010 at 4:14 pmIt was just a matter of time, it is so unfortunate, it truly is.
I learned early on when I received an email (so I thought from PP) well I looked in the address and it was not pp domain at all. I clicked away and called PP directly. My info was safe because I did not login or anything THANK GOD.
A friends wife was not so lucky and this was years later and had her bank acct completely cleaned out. She is still cleaning up the mess that caused her life.
These reminders are so needed!
Jill Lillvis
June 1, 2010 at 10:19 amGreat article, thanks for the warning about this new threat! I admit I have done this before, clicking on links via email and DM’s. Will stop that right away! A few years ago, I clicked on a link that was in an email, it was a keylogger, who then was able to get my login information for my email, programs, and payment processor. I lost $70 in the payment processor, thank heaven was able to restore my accounts. Had to have my computer cleaned and reset to the tune of $150. I do not want to go through an experience like that again! Thanks for the warning!