In the virtual world, some people are only interested in winning free game coins. But what if you have to give your name and email address to get them? Danger can lurk anywhere. And that's exactly where scammers are waiting for you.
That's why Febelfin is launching a new fun campaign, with actors Patrick Ridremont and Andy Peelman as guides in a colourful gaming world. Their mission: to warn young people and their parents about the dangers of online scams through games.
Gaming platforms are now a place where young people relax, but unfortunately also where scammers operate. Through false promises, such as free coins or exclusive offers, they try to steal their victims' personal data. And this can have serious consequences.
Through this campaign, Febelfin wants to raise public awareness that you should never share your personal login details and, above all, never enter your details on unknown or unreliable websites.
The message is clear: talk to young people about online scams. Give them the right tools and information so that they too can protect themselves against digital traps.
Scammers know where you are
Scammers exploit the appeal of virtual rewards or gaming currency. They lure young people with promises such as “free coins” or “exclusive offers” in exchange for their personal data, such as their name, email address, etc. What seems innocent can quickly turn into digital theft.
There are two common methods of theft:
False rewards through surveys
Young people are invited to complete a short questionnaire while they play, in exchange for free coins. In reality, their data is collected, sold or used for phishing purposes.
Phishing sites that look like real gaming sites
Young people are encouraged to log in with their gaming account on a fake gaming site. The scammers then use this data to access the account, which is then sold on Telegram or the dark web.
Also be wary of cheap gaming currencies
On social media such as Discord or Telegram, for example, you can sometimes find groups where you can buy Robux or other cheap gaming currencies. But be careful:
- These coins often come from stolen accounts.
- Sometimes it's even a real scam: you pay, but you get nothing in return.
What you thought was a good deal can therefore end up with you losing your account or being robbed online (through phishing).
"My son Ruben had been playing Minecraft for years and had a well-established account. One evening, he was contacted via Discord by a so-called friend who promised him VIP status. To get it, he had to provide his email address and a code. Shortly afterwards, it turned out that his account had been hacked: the password had been changed and he no longer had access. We were able to prevent further damage, but Ruben lost his account and had to buy a new game. It's a painful lesson, but he's much more vigilant online now," says his mother.
Watch the campaign video with Patrick Ridremont.
More info: https://febelfin.be/fr/presse/fraude-et-securite/votre-nom-vaut-combien-de-gamecoins
Source: Febelfin
