Computer Support Scam Information
Support scams often come in the form of a popup while browsing the web or from a direct call to your residence or cell phone. Popups will typically lock your screen and display some scary warnings about your computer or even bank accounts. They will display a phone number to call. Direct phone calls will generally tell you they are from a reputable company (like Microsoft, Google, Dell, etc.) and tell you there is a serious issue with your computer that needs taken care of right away.
They will always want remote access to your computer and usually a fee where they will want your credit card number or other payment information. No legitimate company will ever call you to say you have an issue with your computer, and no popup online can know your computer has issues. Nobody has that kind of knowledge or access to your computer. These are just techniques they use to hook you in.
Never allow someone you don’t know or have never met take control of your computer. Never disclose financial information to anyone unless you can confirm they belong to be a legitimate business.
If you do get scammed:
- Notify your bank about the scam and possible fraudulent charges.
- Change all passwords to your online accounts!!!
- Have your computer serviced.
- Report the scam to the authorities.
- https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/
More information: https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0346-tech-support-scams
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