Anyone on Instagram should watch out for direct messages that look like they're from Meta. Phishing scams are trying to use would-be Meta announcements to get your password. — Photo: Catherine Waibel/dpa
VIENNA: Instagram users are being warned to watch out for a fake direct message accusing them of copyright infringement on their Instagram page and seeking to steal passwords through a pretend appeal form.
The message, sent by an account called "metaappelcenter", has a link leading to a would-be "objection form," and puts pressure on users to click on the link by setting a deadline of 48 hours, according to consumer protection website Watchlist Internet.
The link then leads users to a fake page that asks for login information, after which the user hands over access to their Instagram profile to the phishing hackers.
"Many times it has been detected that you do not comply with copyright," the initial message says in a strange English. "If you do not complete the objection form that we will give you within 48 hours; your account will be closed."
If you fall for the scam, the Watchlist Internet experts say you should check your email inbox for an email from the sender security@mail.instagram.com.
This is because Instagram usually uses this address to let you know if your email address or password has been changed in your account.
If you see an email like this, then you can click on the link "Undo this change" to block the hackers' efforts to lock you out. Another way to get your account back is to contact Instagram Support (www.instagram.com/hacked/).
Otherwise, you can try to delete the account by reporting the account as a fake profile with the help of friends and acquaintances. Instagram then asks the person in control for proof of identity. If they cannot provide this, then the account should be automatically deleted after a while. – dpa
