How to Avoid Tech Support Scams: Internet Scambusters #1,156
Tech support scams are becoming more common and affect many internet users, small business owners, and seniors worldwide. Scammers exploit fear, urgency, and a lack of technical knowledge to trick people into sharing sensitive information or paying for unnecessary services.
By learning about these scams, you and your loved ones can stay safe online. Let’s explore these scams further.
Tech Support Scams: How to Spot, Avoid, and Report Them
Scammers use various methods to present themselves as legitimate technical support. Some of those common methods are:
- Fake Pop-Ups or Alerts – Sudden pop-up messages appear on your screen, warning you about critical problems like viruses or malware. These messages often use official-sounding language and display numbers to call fake support agents.
- Phishing Emails – Emails appear to come from trusted sources, like your internet provider or software company, urging you to resolve an issue by clicking a link or calling support.
- Fake Websites – Scammers build fake websites that look like real tech support pages. When people looking for help visit these sites, they may unknowingly give away personal or financial information.
Who Is Most Vulnerable to Tech Support Scams?
While anyone can fall victim to technical support scams, certain groups are mainly targeted:
- Seniors – Many seniors, who are often less tech-savvy, may feel intimidated by complicated warnings and may willingly trust scammers who seem helpful.
- Small Business Owners – When under pressure, people can easily fall for scams, like fake domain renewal notices or unexpected IT support requests.
- Internet Users Seeking Help – People who want quick help with tech issues on search engines may come across misleading support ads or websites.
Recognizing a Tech Support Scam
Recognizing the signs of a scam can help you avoid stress, financial loss, and data breaches. Here are some red flags to watch for:
- Receiving unexpected contact from "tech support" when you haven't requested assistance.
- Urgent and alarming messages, such as "Your system has been compromised!”
- Requests for remote access to your computer without verifying their authenticity.
- Demands for immediate payment through gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.
- Unrealistic claims, such as being able to fix all your computer problems for a small fee.
Not understanding your computer can make you vulnerable to scams. For instance, if you see an urgent message that says, “DO NOT TURN OFF YOUR COMPUTER OR YOU WILL LOSE ALL YOUR INFORMATION. CLICK HERE TO CONTACT CUSTOMER SUPPORT,” you might be tempted to click it. This kind of message is most likely part of a tech support scam.
Manipulative Language Tech Support Scammers Might Use
- Friendly and Reassuring Phrases
○ "We're a certified partner of [Company Name]."
○ "We are priority tech support, and we are here to help you."
○ "This is a one-time offer to protect your device." - Rushed and Panicked Phrases
○ "If you don’t act now, the issue will spread across your network!"
○ "Your computer could be permanently locked within minutes."
○ "We need your remote access immediately to stop further damage."
Where to Find Safe Tech Support
If you need technical help and worry about scams, follow these tips to ensure you work with a trustworthy provider:
- Contact Verified Sources – Always contact the official support channels through the company's website or phone number. Do not click on links or phone numbers in suspicious emails or pop-ups.
- Ask Trusted Contacts – If you're uncertain, consult a trusted colleague, family member, or friend for a recommendation.
- Local IT Support – Look for local providers with positive reviews and a solid reputation in the community.
Reliable tech support companies have specific qualities that can help you feel safe.
- Check contact details like phone numbers, emails, and websites from official company sources. Make sure pricing is transparent, and do not pay upfront for services that are not defined.
- Employees should first ask for basic information instead of trying to access remote resources immediately.
- You do not need to act quickly or worry about serious consequences.
What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed
If you think you have been a victim of a tech support scam, act fast to protect your information and money.
- Stop Communication – Hang up the phone or close the session immediately.
- Disconnect Your Device – Turn off Wi-Fi and/or unplug your device to prevent further access.
- Change Passwords – Update passwords for your online accounts, starting with banking and email services.
- Contact Your Bank – Report any unauthorized transactions and ask to block or reverse the payments.
- Scan for Malware – Use reputable antivirus software to scan and remove any malware installed.
How to Report a Tech Support Scam
Reporting scams helps authorities track and prevent future incidents. Here’s where to report tech support scams based on your location:
- United States – File a report with the Federal Trade Commission.
- Outside the US – File a complaint through eConsumer.gov, a partnership between the FTC and consumer protection agencies worldwide.
- File a police report with your local law enforcement.
Conclusion
Tech support scams are a serious problem in our digital world. You can lower your chances of falling for these scams by knowing what to look for and following safe tips when you need help.
Check out the short videos below to understand how quick technical support scams can happen. Remember, you are not alone. Do not be afraid to reach out for help.
- How to Avoid a Tech Support Scam | Federal Trade Commission
- Protect Yourself from Tech Support Scams / Microsoft Support
Tech support scams try to take advantage of people's trust and vulnerability. Anyone can be a target. Scammers are becoming smarter, so we need to stay ahead of them. Being aware is essential! By staying alert and informed, you can protect your personal information.
If you find this helpful information, please share it with your friends and family so they can stay safe online. Together, we can help make the Internet a safer place for everyone.
Stay safe! Stay Informed!