Scam #3: Tech Support and Computer Scams

As more of our lives move online, from banking to connecting with family, so have the scammers. The tech support scam is designed to trick you into believing you have a serious problem with your computer, then charging you a large sum of money for a fake fix. At its worst, this scam can lead to identity theft and a completely compromised computer.

This scam can start in two ways. The first is a pop-up window that suddenly appears on your computer screen. It will look like a scary security alert from a well-known company like Microsoft or Apple. It will have flashing lights, warning sounds, and text claiming your computer is infected with a virus, has been hacked, or is about to crash. The message will instruct you to call a toll-free number immediately to resolve the issue.

The second way is an unsolicited phone call. Someone will call claiming to be from a tech support company. They will say they have detected a problem with your computer and offer to help you fix it.

If you call the number or stay on the line, the scammer will ask for remote access to your computer. They will guide you through a few steps to install a piece of software that allows them to see your screen and control your mouse. Once they are in, they will pretend to run a diagnostic test and will “find” numerous non-existent problems. They will use confusing technical language to make the situation seem dire.

Finally, they will offer to fix the “problems” for a fee, which can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. They will ask for your credit card information. In some cases, they may also use their access to install malicious software that steals your personal information, such as banking passwords and account numbers.

How to Avoid the Tech Support Scam

The most important thing to remember is that legitimate tech companies will never contact you out of the blue about a problem with your device.

Never Trust a Pop-Up Warning. If a scary-looking window appears on your screen demanding you call a number, it is a scam. Do not call the number. The best course of action is to shut down your computer completely. If you can’t close the window, you can force a shutdown by holding down the power button. When you restart your computer, the pop-up should be gone.

Hang Up on Unsolicited Tech Support Calls. If someone calls you claiming to be from a tech company, hang up immediately. It is always a scam. These companies do not monitor your personal computer for errors and they do not make cold calls to offer help.

Never Give Remote Access to a Stranger. Your computer contains a vast amount of personal information. Granting someone remote access is like giving them the keys to your home. Only allow remote access to a trusted technician from a company that you have contacted yourself for help.

Keep Your Security Software Updated. A good antivirus program can help block malicious pop-ups and prevent scammers from installing harmful software on your machine. Make sure it is set to update automatically.

If you are ever concerned about your computer’s health, contact a local, reputable computer repair shop or a trusted, tech-savvy family member for help.