50

I got a message from someone I've never met before, or even heard of, from Nigeria. He wants to learn to write Java code and is asking me if I can recommend any websites or e-books to help him. He seems legitimate and sincere. I don't hide my web presence, so there are any number of ways he could have found me as a programmer. I'm considering replying.

However, with scams of Nigeria past in mind, I just want to double check: is there any security risk to replying to a Facebook message? Anything dangerous about this?

ale
  • 52,972
  • 42
  • 165
  • 314
Daniel Bingham
  • 693
  • 1
  • 6
  • 11

2 Answers2

54

If you reply to a message then you give them "friend" access to your profile for one month.

Concerning Nigerian scammers then that could lead to identity theft or other website accounts being hacked using your personal information (mother's maiden name, etc.).

Peter Mortensen
  • 1,871
  • 3
  • 20
  • 30
Ken
  • 564
  • 5
  • 5
32

General Rule: Never, ever respond to an unsolicited message (Facebook, e-mail, whatever).

The best possible outcome is to confirm that they have contacted a valid address, opening the door for more requests and Spam.

That's why you don't choose the "unsubscribe" links when you get Spam.

Mark it as Spam, and move on.

Wonko the Sane
  • 421
  • 5
  • 7