Tech Support Scams

Tech support scams are a prevalent form of fraud where criminals impersonate technical support personnel or well-known companies to trick you into believing your computer has a serious problem.

How It Works:

• Initial Contact: This occurs via unsolicited phone calls, fake websites, or alarming pop-up warnings on your browser that lock your screen and instruct you to call a number.
• Creating Fear: Scammers use technical jargon and misrepresent normal system logs to convince you your device is infected.
• Gaining Access: They persuade you to download remote access software. Once they have control, they can steal personal information or install real malware.
• Demanding Payment: They demand exorbitant payment for their "fix" using untraceable methods like gift cards or wire transfers.

Key Red Flags:

• Pop-up warnings that include a phone number to call. Legitimate companies never do this.
• Unsolicited calls from "Microsoft" or "Apple" claiming your computer is infected.
• Requests for remote access from an unverified caller.
• Demands for payment via gift cards or cryptocurrency.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Never Call the Number: If a pop-up freezes your browser, force-quit the application (Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Windows, Cmd+Option+Esc on Mac).
• Hang Up: Disconnect any unsolicited call claiming there is a problem with your computer.
• Run Legitimate Software: If you suspect an issue, run a full scan using trusted, up-to-date antivirus software yourself.