How To Outsmart Tech Support Scams

It’s no secret that viruses and malware are a real risk to the sensitive information contained on your computer or smartphone. Now, scammers are impersonating tech support employees, claiming they can help you avoid those viruses – all while plotting to access your bank accounts and credit cards.

Tech support scams have become a major issue in recent years. The FBI reports that about $347 million was stolen by fraudsters pretending to be tech support experts in 2021. These scams take many forms: phone calls, website pop-ups, and emails. So what can you do to ensure you don’t fall victim to one of these tricks? Here’s what the Federal Trade Commission says you should be on the lookout for:

“The scammers may pretend to be from a well-known tech company, such as Microsoft,” the FTC says. “They use lots of technical terms to convince you that the problems with your computer are real. They may ask you to open some files or run a scan on your computer – and then tell you those files or the scan results show a problem… but there isn’t one.”

The scammer may then ask for remote access to your computer, giving them access to all information stored on your device or the network it’s connected to. They may also ask for your financial information directly or direct you to websites that ask you to enter personal information, such as your bank account numbers and credit card number.

Here’s how the FTC recommends you avoid these phony tech support scams:

• Hang up the phone: if you believe a scammer is posing as a tech support representative on the phone, don’t stay on the line.
• Ignore pop-ups: While some pop-up messages on your computer are real, those that ask you to click a link because of a computer problem are likely scams.
• Call your IT or software company directly: Use the phone number you can find on their website so you know you’re talking to a legitimate tech support representative.
• Never give out your password: The only person who should know your password is you!
• Don’t give remote access to your computer: Unless you are positive that the person on the other end of the interaction is legitimate, you should never let someone else control your device.

Finally, one of the best things you can do to fight scammers is to pass this information on to a friend or loved one. The more aware we all are about scams, the better!

Visit the FIBT Education Center for even more tips on how to stay safe online and keep your financial information secure!