Facebook Messenger hacked: Beware of these links, videos and viruses

Unusual links and messages in Facebook Messenger usually mean one thing: Your Facebook friend's account has been hacked. In this article, we will tell you what to look out for and how you can protect yourself.

What are Facebook Messenger hackers looking for?

Since the existence of social networks, criminals have tried to use them to drive malware and viruses away. But why are you doing this at all?

• By infecting your PC with malware and viruses, the hackers gain access to your data.
• The hackers are pursuing different goals: For example, they gain access to your money by finding out your account details and credit card numbers. Others block access to your PC and demand a ransom for its release, others try to collect enough information to blackmail you afterwards.
• On Facebook, hackers use friendship protection. You hack a profile and then send messages from that profile to their Facebook friends. The hope is that the recipients trust the sender and click on the link.

You should pay attention to this

Facebook hackers' methods are often similar. We have put together the most common features of a hack message for you.

• The most important tip to avoid viruses and hacks is this: Never click on links in messages that seem unusual to you.
• The links will mostly be camouflaged and at first glance look like a URL you know, such as a link to a YouTube video. However, a closer look reveals that the dot in the URL is set in the wrong place or that the "preview" of the video is just a fake.
• Don't be alarmed when you see your own profile picture in the website preview. This is part of the hack and a fake.
• If you accidentally clicked on the link, you will usually be redirected to a website that prompts you to install a program. Do not carry out this installation under any circumstances, even if the program has a well-known title such as "Flash Player".
• Ask yourself who the message came from. If a person suddenly appears in your messenger mailbox with whom you have not been in contact for a long time, it can be a hack. You should also be skeptical about messages from other Facebook profiles.
• Facebook Hacks' messages are usually very short, so you don't expose yourself to wrong information or languages.
• If you get a message in English or another language from a German-speaking friend, you should become suspicious.
• Often the message only contains your name and a number of emojis.
• But be careful: the hackers always come up with new tricks and methods. If a message appears unusual to you, you should never click on the link it contains. Better safe than sorry!
• It is therefore essential to install a reliable anti-virus program on your computer.
• Also make sure to change your passwords regularly. Furthermore, never use a password for multiple accounts.