This is a reminder to avoid falling for Tech Support Scams.
Tech Support Scams, typically, involve someone cold calling a potential victim, saying they are with a trusted organization or company, such as Microsoft or Windows, and warning that their computer is malfunctioning or infected with a dangerous virus. Then the caller (scammer) offers to help by having the victim download software, or remotely connecting to the victim’s computer, to fix the problem.
For the past decade, or so, scammers have tricked people into compromising their computer security, credit card details, or bank account information, with this type of scam. More recently, the scam can occur when a popup window appears, on a computer or smartphone screen, warning of a virus, or computer problem, and providing a phone number (belonging to the scammers) to call for help. Some scammers even have legitimate looking websites (belonging to the scammers) listed with search engines, like Google.
In order to avoid these scams, be suspicious of any unsolicited phone calls or popup messages. Don’t automatically trust websites found via search engines, without researching whether they are provided by legitimate organizations or companies.
Listen to this podcast on Tech Support Scams…
Information on how to detect, and avoid, these scams can be found at the following links…
Protect yourself from tech support scams [Microsoft]
Avoiding tech support scams [FTC]
New Twist to the Tech Support Scam [AARP]
Unsolicited tech support call? Just hang up! [Sophos]
Avoiding Social Engineering and Phishing Attacks [US-CERT]
Additionally, legitimate sources of technical support include…
Eric's Computer Clinic
Local computer shops or technicians
Your computer manufacturer (OEM)
Microsoft
Apple
