Tech support scammers would like you to think that you have a severe issue with your computer, as if you had viruses. They will ask customers to purchase technical support services that you don’t require to fix the problem that’s not there. They will often request that you wire money or place money onto gift cards, prepaid cards, cash reload cards, and cryptocurrency or the money transfer app since they know that these kinds of transactions can be challenging to reverse.
Spotting and Avoiding Tech Support Scams
Tech support scammers employ many various methods to deceive victims. Awareness of these scams will ensure you avoid falling into a deception trap.
Phone calls
Tech support scammers typically phone and claim to be computer technicians from a reputable businesses. They claim they have discovered an issue with your computer. They usually request remote access to your computer, then pretend to conduct tests to diagnose the problem. Then, they attempt to make you pay for fixing the issue that isn’t there. Watch the reported calls undercover phone call from the tech support fraudster.
You should hang up if you get a call that you didn’t anticipate from someone who tells you there’s an issue with your computer.
Pop-up alerts
Scammers from tech support may attempt to fool you by presenting the appearance of a pop-up message on the screen of your computer. It could look like the error messages from your antivirus or operating system or even include logos of trusted companies or even websites. The message on the screen warns you of security issues on your system and advises you to dial a number to get assistance.
Only contact the number when you get this type of pop-up on your computer. Actual security messages and alerts do not solicit you to dial an unknown number.
Listings and online ads are included in the search results pages.
Scammers who offer tech support try to get their websites to appear in search results for technical support. They may also have their advertisements on the internet. They’re hoping you’ll contact the number listed to get assistance.
Contact an enterprise you trust and can trust if you’re searching for tech support.
Two Things To Know To Avoid a Tech Support Scam
1. legitimate tech companies won’t reach you via phone, email, or text messages to inform you about a problem with your computer.
2. Security pop-ups and warnings from legitimate tech companies won’t ever ask you to call a number or click the link.
What To Do if You Think There’s a Problem With Your Computer
If you suspect an issue on or on your PC, update your computer’s security software and do an examination.
If you require help with an issue, seek help from someone you trust. For example, many software companies offer assistance via email or telephone. In addition, retail stores that sell computers provide technical support in person.
What To Do if You Were Scammed
If you have paid an online scammer for tech support using a card such as a credit or debit card or debit card, you might be capable of stopping the transaction. Contact your bank or the credit card company immediately. Let them know what happened and ask them to reverse the charge.
If you have paid a scammer for tech support using the gift card, you should immediately contact the company that issued the gift card. Inform them that you were a victim of fraud using the gift card, and inquire if they will refund your money.
If you’ve given a scammer the ability to access your PC remotely, update your computer’s security software. Run a scan, and remove anything it finds as a threat.
If you have given your password and username to a scammer who uses tech support, Change your password immediately. If you have the same password on other accounts or websites, change that password, too. Create new, strong passwords. Secure password. both safe and robust.
Learn more: One-ring – cell phone scam can ding your wallet
Avoid Tech Support Refund Scams
If someone contacts you to offer you a refund on tech support services you’ve purchased, it’s probably to be a fraudulent refund scam. What is the method used to scam you? First, the scammer will ask you whether you’re satisfied with the service you received. If you answer “No,” they’ll give you a full refund. Another variation is that the phone caller claims the business is offering refunds because they’re closing down. However, regardless of their claim, they’re not offering refunds. They’re attempting to steal more than your money. Don’t provide them with your bank details, credit card, or other payment details.
Reporting Tech Support Scams
If a scammer with a fake tech support number contacts you, you should make a report to the at reportedcalls.net
If you report a scam, the reported calls utilizes the data to make cases against fraudsters. Are you doubtful that the report of scams can make an impact? Watch this video to discover how your story can help the reported calls to stop fraudsters.
If you now know how to spot a technology support scam, be sure to share the information you have learned with someone you are familiar with. They could be able to keep away from scams with tech support.