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| The DICT warned Internet users about a website posing as the defunct social network Friendster. Photo: Friendster |
The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has warned Internet users about a sketchy website masquerading as an updated version of the defunct social network Friendster.
A Facebook post claiming users can now register on the revived Friendster received over 9,000 shares and 6,000 reactions as of writing.
DICT warned that despite the website's apparent authenticity, the IP address has previously been associated with cybercrimes such as phishing.
"The 'new' Friendster appears to be a legitimate website, but the current IP address hosting the site (23.106.120.84) had previous reports of phishing, brute force and DDoS attacks, hacking, and host exploitations," the department announced on Monday.
DICT also noted that the website lacks an "About Us" page, which could identify its creators. There is a possibility that the website in question is being used for phishing, the agency noted.
"Avoid clicking on suspicious links to avoid future threats. Do not register for this website, as your information may be compromised," DICT said.
Friendster was one of the most popular online networking services in 2004. Due to the site's poor user experience and the company's failure to update its technology, it was shut down in 2015.