Scamwatch: new Facebook fraud

Stay one step ahead of the fraudsters with our series of articles giving you the lowdown on the scams they use to trick people out of their hard-earned cash - and how to avoid being taken in by them.

This week, we explain how fraudsters are capitalising on the recent announcement that Facebook is to redesign its "Like" button system.

How does it work?

Following Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg's recent announcement, a number of links and apps have popped up purporting to offer a new "Dislike" button.

However, according to the National Trading Standards eCrime Team, all the apps, profiles and websites offering it are scams, as are posts saying that any user has been chosen by Facebook to test the new button.

Facebook users are therefore being warned not to click on any install links to avoid being diverted to an external website that could automatically upload malicious software on to their device.

How can I avoid being caught out?

The basic rule is simple: if a link looks suspicious, don't click on it. Only clicking on links from reputable sources should keep you safe.

And for the moment, you can be sure that any message offering an installation or trial of a "Dislike" button is a scam.

I've been defrauded. What should I do?

If you think your computer has been the subject of a malicious attack of any kind, it's worth running an online virus scanner, such as the Microsoft Safety Scanner.

It is also important to change your passwords and login details to prevent hackers accessing your accounts.

Informing Facebook, for example by reporting a group using the ... tab in the top right corner of the group's page, can help it to take action against the criminals behind the scam.