Michael Jackson death creates furor in online scams

July 1, 6:27 AMPhoenix News You Can Use ExaminerJack Dunning

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Almost instantaneously with the announcement of Michael Jackson’s death, the online scammers were at work to do their number on millions of his fans that were craving for more information. You’ve seen the emotional reaction on TV news coverage with Jackson admirers completely breaking down at memorials. Can you imagine the fervor with which they attacked their computer when searching for more news?

That’s exactly what the crooks are looking for. And even with warning after warning, people continue to wade right into a mysterious link or e-mail attachment they haven’t the slightest idea who it came from, to see something about MJ that isn’t there, but is replaced by a virus or spyware. The BBC says that the scammers figure these loyal followers of the pop star have their guard down and react only with emotion, not common sense.

Phoenix has seen its share of online scams recently. Mystery Shopping is a hit with those trying to make extra money but who end up cashing a check from the company, and after sending back a “fee,” find out the check was bogus. There was also the Grandparents Scam where grandma is tricked into sending money to a bogus grandson. Then, the Jury Scam that orders victims to e-mails containing malware, and the online dating scam that asks for money for love.

One of the biggies of the current campaign was an offer of a YouTube video portraying the exclusive “last work of Michael Jackson.” Another promised a showing of the “latest unpublished photos” of the singer. On occasion you might even find a pop-up message that urges you to update your Adobe Flash, which is standard hacker fare according to ComputerWorld. If you think the link or e-mail might be bogus, or you are unfamiliar with its origin, go somewhere else. There are millions of sites, so look for those with recognizable paths.

The FTC will announce today the crackdown of frauds that are incited by the current economic downturn, and that would include online scams like the MJ incidents. Also, along with taking your money outright if they can get it, the bad guys are always looking for ways to steal your identity and capitalize on your good credit standing. It is inevitable that consumers must someday be given control over their names and personal data, perhaps the only way to remedy this epidemic.

With all the Michael Jackson hullabaloo, Farah Fawcett’s passing hasn’t received the same level of attention, but her name shares a prominent place in the recent wave of online scams with the same techniques designed to reach her loyal fans. The one thing you cannot accuse a scammer of is prejudice of their victims. Every flavor of celebrity devotee is game for their action, and this all, of course, is not limited to just the glamour world.

I challenge you to watch the news and predict what the next scam will be, then tell everyone you know.

Please leave your comments or E-mail me: jack.dundiv@cox.net  

For more info:  

FTC Complaint Form  

Michael Jackson Career History