Thursday, March 19, 2009

Beware of facebook apps that ask for your cell phone number

So the other day, I was playing this game on facebook and I was prompted to enter my cell # to see my score. I did that and then it told me I'll have to put in the confirmation # that they just texted me. :-/ I did that. I know! I know! I was gullible!!! I usually never do this - but just did it for this one. Ever since then, I've been receiving a tonne of spam texts on my cell phone. I called AT&T to stop this mess and found that I was subscribed to a 3rd party content provider (Playphone, Inc.) at $14.99 per month. Weirdos!!! AT&T canceled my subscription, refunded my money - so everything was good.

Did you know this???
Third party providers often offer content which can include Text and SMS content like Alerts/Horoscopes/Trivia/Jokes, downloadable content like Ringtones/Games/Graphics, and other informational content.

There is the option for one-time purchases or sign
up for monthly/weekly subscription plans which allow you a package of
downloads before being charged at a per download cost. These purchases
can then be billed to your wireless phone bill through your cell phone carrier.

These subscriptions do require that the phone user accept the offer for the
"free" ring tone or message either by text message or on the web site to
start the subscription.

Obviously the app gave me the wrong reason (to see my score) and then subscribed me without telling me.

Just wanted to warn you all. Don't ever give your cellphone numbers to any facebook app or website. I am not going to "Allow Access" to any apps either - don't trust'em.

Facebook API Developers Guide (Firstpress)



Related story:
Use Facebook? Beware identity theft
Experts: Beware of Charges "Crammed" Onto Your Bill

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