Fairfield police: Beware of scam with message ‘Is this a video of you?’

Cyber- savvy criminals love to phish, baiting the unaware, but Fairfield police said do not click on a message from a “friend” that asks “Is this a video of you?”

In a department social media post Monday, the author wrote that “bad guys” use platforms like Facebook and Instagram to impersonate users’ real friends and followers. Using this disguise, scammers try to trick them into sharing sensitive information.

Citing a common scam that is regaining popularity, here’s how it goes, according to the post’s wording:

You receive a message from a friend or follower asking “Is this a video of you?” The message includes a screenshot of a blackedout or blurry video. If you click to watch the video, you will be taken to a social media look-a-like login page that is designed to steal your account credentials. If you enter your credentials, the information will be sent directly to the fraudsters and they will be able to use your social media account to scam anyone on your friends list.

Keep you and your friends safe by following these tips: • The simple message used in this scam “sparks feelings of curiosity, concern, and urgency. Don’t let the bad guys toy with your emotions. Think before you click!” the post’s author wrote. • Be cautious of messages that are offtopic, unusual, or outlandish, especially if the message includes a link. • Keep your social media accounts private and only accept friend or follow requests from people that you know and trust.