How to identify a fake Facebook profile. Not.

Sri Lanka Watch reports that,

According to intelligence reports, a massive fake facebook scam is underway by certain individuals to collect personal photos and information of people for commercial and other purposes. This is the latest Internet scam that is common in Colombo and Kandy areas.

Sri Lanka Watch, in a remarkable display of sheer genius, goes on to tell us four key characteristics of fake Facebook profiles.

How to identify a fake profile

1)      Many wall messages in the fake profile claiming “ thanks for the add”

2)      Fake profiles usually have one or two profile photos

3)      A fake profile photo is usually of a very attractive female/male

4)      Fake profiles have sexual overtones all ove

1. Many wall messages in the fake profile claiming “ thanks for the add”
2. Fake profiles usually have one or two profile photos
3. A fake profile photo is usually of a very attractive female/male
4. Fake profiles have sexual overtones all over

Based on 2 – 4 alone, I fear everyone I thought were friends on my Facebook account are actually fake profiles. More seriously, this is a prime example of inconsequential, web illiterate journalists furnishing pedestrian piffle in the hope that they are noticed and taken seriously.