London, Feb 12 (IANS): If you get a message on WhatsApp with an offer of a free pair of Adidas shoes, take it with a pinch of salt as reports suggest that it may be a trap to extract your details by cyber criminals.

"Adidas is giving away 3,000 Free Pair of Shoes to celebrate its 93rd anniversary. Get your free shoes at: Adidas.com/shoes," claims the message, which appears to come from an official Adidas website.

But it is actually elaborate scam which could end up with personal details being handed to cyber criminals, experts have warned.

The malicious scam has already duped thousands, Express.co.uk reported on Sunday.

Adidas has confirmed that the message is a hoax.

"We are aware of the WhatsApp message that is currently circulating claiming that Adidas is giving away free footwear and would like to caution the public about believing this, as it is definitely a hoax", Lauren Haakman, Brand Communications & PR Manager of Adidas South Africa, was quoted as saying by The Sun.

The Facebook-owned messaging service is a key target for hackers because of its immense popularity.