Tech Support Scams

Tech support scams are a popular way for scammers to steal your money or compromise your computer. 

How the Scam Works

People hate the idea of being locked out of an account or losing functionality to a service the use often. In this scam, you receive an email claiming that something is wrong with your computer, tablet, or phone. Or you may stumble upon a website where a pop-up comes up saying something about a critical security breach with a number to call or link to click on.

The scammer impersonating tech support tells you to reach out to them directly so they can remotely access your computer to resolve the issue. Many times, they will ask you to be in front of your computer, so they can get remote access to your machine. Once you grant the scammer access to your computer to “fix the problem” they can install malware, ransomware and other harmful viruses that give them your personal information.

How to Beat the Scam

Think about it: when something breaks, you reach out to the company, not the other way around. A provider usually won’t reach out to you via email or in the form of a popup. And a provider will NEVER ask you for your username and password.

If you think something may be wrong, Google the company’s legitimate phone number and ask if there is a record of them reaching out to you. If they have stated they have not, delete the scam email.

Extra Credit Tip

• Don’t let the fear that something may be wrong lead to hasty decisions, never click on any links in an email or text message unless you are 100% certain it is legitimate. A fifteen minute phone call with the legitimate company can verify the email is a scam and prevent you from becoming a victim.

Pop Quiz: Define the Terms

Malware

Malware is harmful software that aims to disrupt or damage your technology. Once malware has been installed, your device’s security is compromised and scammers can take advantage to search and find your personal and financial information. Depending on the program that was installed, scammers may be able to monitor your use of the computer or go through the preexisting information on the device.

Ransomware

You receive a link, whether in an email or text message, that looks innocent enough, but once you visit the website ransomware is installed on your computer. These viruses are often incredibly complex and put the victim completely at the mercy of the scammer. Ransomware locks the victim out of their account and requires repayment to gain access to their information.

Once the ransomware is installed, you are at the mercy of the scammer. The best practice is to avoid clicking and placing yourself into the situation at all.