A fake profile impersonates someone else, pretending to be someone that exists, using the victim’s pictures — a familiar person, celebrities, organizations, a pet.
The aim of a fake account is usually to scam their friends and followers and possibly extort money from them. Or spread fake information using the face of a familiar person, information that can incite hate and violence.
Such profiles are against Facebook community standards and are not allowed on Facebook, if you encounter such profiles you can report.
How to report a fake Facebook account
Here’s how to report a fake Facebook account:
- Look for the suspected Facebook account ( either search their name or go through a link).
- Go to the three dot buttons(…) below the cover photo.
- Select ‘Find Support or Report File’.
- Follow instructions on the screen to file a report for the Facebook profile.
How to report a fake Facebook page
- Login to Facebook.
- Go to the impersonating page; either search or go through a link.
- Tap more (…).
- Select ‘Find Support or Report File‘.
- Choose ‘Scams and Fake pages ‘.
- Choose the option that best describes the impersonating page.
- Tap on Next.
Tip: Even without a Facebook account, you can report a fake Facebook profile and fake Facebook page. Go to official Facebook site and fill the contact form to report and impersonating page or account.
How do I spot a fake Facebook account/page?
Fake Facebook account can be spotted if you notice a friend’s account is used to spread fake news or ask for monetary help especially when you know your friend can’t indulge in such.
It might be a fake account, if you try to engage the person behind the account to know who they are, they might stop replying you.
What do I do when I spot a fake Facebook account/page?
Facebook is against such profiles, if any is found you have to report instantly. You can save the link or username so you don’t forget. You can as well invite your friends to report the account, massive reporting will help Facebook flag down such account.
This article was first published on September 20, 2022 8:07 p.m. WAT
