Are you getting odd Facebook requests from people you don't know? It's likely a scam



TAMPA, Fla. -- A lot of folks are getting odd friend requests on Facebook. People from all over the world, who you don't know, are asking to be your friend.

A University of South Florida professor says that those "friends" want access to your personal information and might be trying to steal your identity and your money.

Information systems professor Grandon Gill says that there may be no precise answer to why strangers are sending you friend requests. But, you should be cautious.

"For example, if there happens to be someone from the military in these networks, they might be able to start to pick up information from their profile that would identify for example who they are, where they are." Gill tells WTSP-TV.

Those friend requests may also be part of a scam to get your money. The Better Business Bureau reports that friend requests are a good way for someone to access your personal information.  If you add them as a friend they can start messaging you.

"Facebook is an easy way for scammers to reach networks of people, and in this case, under the guise of someone they trust. If you happen to add a scammer, they have access to information that could lead to identity theft or other fraudulent activity. In this case, it seems like the “fake friend” was after money (aren’t they all, really?) through a loan scam."


Those "Friends" may also be looking to steal your identity.

The BBB offers these tips: