How to Spot and Avoid Tech Support Scams
Published: August 20, 2024
Tech support scams are a growing threat, targeting unsuspecting individuals by pretending to be legitimate tech support professionals. These scammers trick victims into giving them access to their computers or personal information under the guise of resolving a non-existent problem. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself and your loved ones.
How the Scam Works
Scammers often pose as representatives from well-known tech companies like Microsoft. They use technical jargon to convince you that your computer has a severe problem. They might ask you to run a scan or open specific files, then claim those actions have revealed an issue. However, the "problem" is entirely fabricated, and their goal is to gain access to your computer or sensitive information.
How to Protect Yourself
- Ignore Unsolicited Contact
If you receive an unexpected call, email, or text claiming an issue with your computer, ignore it, even if it appears from a reputable company. Legitimate tech support will not contact you out of the blue.
2. Be Wary of Pop-Ups
Scammers often use pop-ups that mimic error messages or advertisements to trick you into calling a fake support number. Never call a number from a pop-up or interact with unfamiliar windows on your screen.
3. Don’t Give Remote Access
Never allow anyone you don’t know or trust to access your computer. Scammers may ask you to download remote access software like Any Desk or TeamViewer, which gives them control over your device.
4. Don’t Act in a Hurry
Scammers often create a false sense of urgency to pressure you into making hasty decisions. Take your time to think and verify the situation before taking any action.
5. Protect Sensitive Information
Don’t share verification codes, log-in details, or credit card information with anyone who contacts you unexpectedly. Legitimate tech support will not ask for this information.
Protecting Yourself and Loved Ones
It’s often best to shut down your computer if you encounter a suspicious situation. Try rebooting your device if you can’t close a browser window displaying a fake virus warning. Always disregard phone numbers provided in pop-ups, as legitimate tech companies will never ask you to call a number or click a link in this manner.
If you receive an unsolicited communication, don’t respond. Instead, the incident should be reported to local authorities and the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). Staying vigilant and informed is your best defense against these scams.
For more detailed information, visit the Federal Trade Commission’s guide on how to spot, avoid, and report tech support scams: FTC Tech Support Scams.
Article content and third-party links are provided for information purposes only.
Work Cited
Krown, K., Heras, G. de las, Miller, T., & Puig, A. (2024, July 31). How to spot, avoid, and report tech support scams. Consumer Advice. https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-spot-avoid-and-report-tech-support-scams
Liu, H., & FTC, S. at the. (2021, November 9). Tech Support Scams. Federal Trade Commission. https://www.ftc.gov/business-guidance/small-businesses/cybersecurity/tech-support-scams
Protect yourself from Tech Support Scams. Microsoft Support. (n.d.). https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/protect-yourself-from-tech-support-scams-2ebf91bd-f94c-2a8a-e541-f5c800d18435