Learn to recognize the red flags of tech support scams and the steps needed to protect yourself.
In the digital era, as criminals become more sophisticated with each technological advance, tech support scams have become increasingly complex. These scams may reach you thorough a call, an unsuspecting email or through pop-ups on your device, trying to get access to your personal information.
How Tech Support Scams Work
Scammers will use the names of well-known technology companies, such as Google and Apple, to convince you that there are problems with your device. They intend to create fear that you’ve been hacked and that they can help you fix the problem.
Here’s their strategy:
- Gaining Access: They may ask you for remote access to your device, which lets them access all the information stored.
- “Troubleshooting:” They’ll pretend to find a major “problem” and offer to fix the issue for a “small fee.”
- Financial Information: They’ll ask you for credit card information to bill you for fixing the “problems they identify.”
- Malware Installation: The malware installed will give them access to your sensitive data, including usernames, passwords, and financial information.
- Unnecessary Maintenance: They’ll try to sell you maintenance programs or updates to protect you from ongoing threats.
- Fake Ads and Websites: They’ll use ads and create fake customer service websites that appear in search results.
How To Avoid Tech Support Scams
- Never give control of your device or share passwords with anyone who contacts you.
- Ignore phone numbers provided to you in emails, voicemails, or pop-up ads that you never requested.
- Review your account activity regularly to spot signs of fraud, such as suspicious online transfers from your accounts or purchases on your credit cards.
- Do not click any links warning of problems detected on your device.
- Keep your security software up to date.
If you suspect your device has been compromised, take it to an authorized retailer for a thorough malware checkup. Don’t rely on an online search for device repair without verifying that the repair company is legitimate.
If you believe your information has been compromised, change your passwords. If you think your finances may be compromised, call your credit card company or financial institution immediately.
At First Entertainment, we value our members’ rights to a safe and secure banking experience. If you have any questions, please call us at 888.800.3328 or send us a Secure Message.
