IT Tech Support Scams
No one likes to get scammed. It seems like these days; the scammers are getting more and more tricky. It makes you question just about everything. Here is another scam, the FTC is warning of a surge in tech support scams, many of which can be challenging to spot.
In a recent widespread scam, a company called Elite IT Partners, Inc. purchased keywords that showed in searches for password recovery assistance. Victims contacted the “company,” which asked them to fill out an online form with their contact information. Scammers then called the victims, asking for remote access to their computers. Once inside, they used false evidence to convince victims that their computers required repairs requiring pricey software. The scammers accepted payment for this software but did not provide it.
Tech support scams don’t always follow the above script. Here are two other common scenarios:
1. Phone calls
In this variation, scammers spoof the numbers of well-known companies claiming they’ve found a problem with the victim’s computer. They’ll ask for remote access to it, run a “diagnostic test,” and plant bogus issues. They’ll then ask the victim to pay an excessive amount of money to get the problem fixed.
Red flag: Legitimate tech-support companies will never initiate contact by phone.
2. Pop-up warnings
Sometimes, a tech-support scammer will target victims with an alarming pop-up warning. The pop-up might look like a legitimate error from the victim’s system or antivirus software. The message will warn about a computer security issue and instruct the victim to call a listed number. Once the victim calls, they give up access to allow the scammer remote access to their computer. The scam will then proceed much like the above accounts.
Consumer FTC: Keep tech support, and strangers, out of your computer
Red flag: Legitimate security warnings from tech companies will never ask you to call a phone number.
If you’ve been scammed
Did you fall prey to a tech-support scam? It may not be too late to reclaim your money.
If you paid via credit or debit card, you might be able to stop the transaction. Contact your credit card company or Elevate Credit Union about contesting the charge.
You’ll also want to update your computer’s security software and run a scan. Delete anything your computer identifies as a security issue. Be sure to change your usernames and passwords as well.
Finally, don’t forget to report your scam to the FTC. Anyone can get scammed. Make sure any IT tech support scams do not scam you.
