Ever received a Direct Message on Twitter like this?

Or how about this one:

Haha! Have you seen this hilarious picture of you?

Here’s an image of one I received. Boyyy, was I tempted to click on the link inside…

These direct messages are usually from someone you know and always include a live link.  If you click you expect to be met by your biggest fear: the MOST embarrassing picture of you on the internet for everyone to see.

Eeeek!

Normally the link directs you to what appears to be a Twitter log in page where you’re prompted to enter your account details.

Your worst fear isn’t realised (thank God) but if you’re not careful it could lead to something else:

Your account being hacked and used to spread more malicious spam to all of your followers.

And so the spamming continues…

What to do if this happens to you…

• Firstly, don’t be tempted to click on the link. The tweets are written in such a way to make your curiosity get the better of you, and are normally from someone you know and trust. Don’t click!
• If you do click, don’t provide any personal details, log ins or passwords or anything else that may risk  your security.
• If you’re super curious about the message, ask the sender what it’s about. If it is spam you’ll be doing your friend a favour by alerting them of it.
• Change your password (and do this regularly) using the official Twitter.com website.
• Check what apps are connected to your account (Settings > Apps) and revoke access to any that you are no longer using. This is often a weak link in to your account.

If you’re unlucky enough to have been hacked and the spam messages are coming from your account, don’t panic.

Follow the steps above, and send a tweet to your peeps explaining that your account has been hacked. Advise them not to click on any DM links that have come from you.

And, don’t worry – move on up. It won’t ruin your reputation or be the end of your business – it happens to all of us!