Urgent warning over Instagram Threads app as security experts reveal 5 signs of criminal attack – avoid becoming victim
MARK Zuckerberg's new Threads app is finally here – but cyber-experts are urging users to proceed with caution.
Speaking to The U.S. Sun, security insiders reveal the risks of joining a new social media app.
The Instagram Threads app is the hottest new rival to Twitter – with more than 10million users logging on in the first 24 hours.
We spoke to several cyber-experts who revealed some of the key dangers you should look out for.
You risk losing your accounts, personal info and even money as cyber-criminals look to target potential victims on the new Threads app.
There are five dangers that you should watch out for.
Fake accounts
Jelle Wieringa, security awareness advocate at KnowBe4
"We expect to see scams where bad actors use phishing emails to try and gain access to user credentials," Jelle told The U.S. Sun.
"Or will use fake accounts to spread mis- and disinformation.
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"And even though Meta is trying to enforce verified accounts by linking Threads to existing Instagram accounts, it will be only a matter of time before bad actors will find ways around this.
"The opportunity that a new platform like Threads offers to scammers is simply too large to ignore."
Scam messages
Brad Freeman, Director of Technology at SenseOn
"New social networks are exciting but they are a prime environment for hackers and fraudsters," Brad told us.
Right now, miscreants will be trying to understand how to use Threads their for own gain.
"Be cautious with your interactions, criminals will be trying to engage with you to get access to your money or identity.
"Meta will enhance the security for Threads, but this takes time.
"Scammers and cyber criminals are highly innovative, and the controls implemented by Threads will be unfortunately learnt from the victims of successful scams."
Requests for info
Lisa Ventura MBE, Founder of Cyber Security Unity and Advisory Council Member, International Cyber Expo
"Scammers will often adapt their tactics to exploit new platforms and technologies, and doing so on Threads will be no exception, so it is possible that Threads can become a target very quickly," Lisa revealed.
"This could be done via phishing with the use of notifications or messages that appear to come from Threads asking users for sensitive information like usernames, passwords, or financial details.
"Fake profiles or accounts like on other social media platforms could also be an issue.
"As they will pertain to be from legitimate users, influencers, or other customer support representatives to gain trust and manipulate users into sharing personal information or engage in fraudulent activities."
Fraudulent officials
Lisa Ventura MBE, Founder of Cyber Security Unity and Advisory Council Member, International Cyber Expo
"Another main way that scammers could target users on Threads is by impersonating platform officials, moderators or popular figures within the community,"; Lisa warned.
"They may try to exploit users by claiming to offer special privileges promotions or exclusive content in exchange for personal information, payment or other deceptive means or actions."
"Users should protect themselves from potential scams on Threads or any platform, and it is crucial to exercise caution and follow general online safety practices.
"Be very wary of sharing personal information, especially financial details, with unknown or unverified individuals or accounts.
"Always verify the legitimacy of any requests or notifications you receive by contacting official customer support channels through the platform's trusted website or app.
"And implement multi-factor authentication to protect your Threads account further."
Lost Instagram account
Brian Higgins, security specialist at Comparitech
"Threads is clearly a data-grabbing exercise and is totally at odds with multi-jurisdictional privacy frameworks," Brian advised.
"If you’re not bothered about handing all of your personal information, habits, movements and activities to an organisation with no intention of safeguarding any if it then a decent VPN should get you onboard regardless.
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"Anecdotally if you sign up and then leave you’re going to be booted off Instagram as well.
"So think carefully before you jump on this particular bandwagon."