Raise your hand if you’ve received a call out of the blue informing you that a virus or other malady has been identified on your computer. Now raise your hand (it’s OK, no one can see) if you’ve become a victim of what is known as the tech support scam.
The tech support scam is one of the most widely reported ruses to BBB Scam Tracker, a free interactive online tool where you can research and report scams in your area. Find it at bbb.org/scamtracker.
Although the tech support scam has been around for years, it continues to succeed because no one likes finding out his or her computer is infected with a virus.
When you do hear there’s a problem, panic sets in followed by immediate relief that the tech support caller can help right then and there for a small fee.
You’re instructed on how to provide remote control of your computer to the caller, who claims he will remove the virus once you provide your credit card number. What he does, however, is install a virus that will help him steal your financial information, perhaps even your identity.
In other scenarios, the fraudster may try to enroll you in a phony computer maintenance or warranty program or direct you to websites that ask you to enter your credit card number and other personal information. What to do?
If you receive such a call, simply hang up. Major computer companies such as Microsoft do not monitor computers they’ve sold to ensure they stay virus free.
Never provide remote control of your computer to a third party you did not contact.
Make sure your antivirus software is installed and regularly updated. This is what keeps your computer safe from identity-stealing viruses.
If you’ve become a victim, use legitimate security software to scan your computer and change any passwords you shared. If you gave out your credit card number, call your provider to have charges reversed. If you’re concerned that your identity may have been stolen, visit the Federal Trade Commission’s identity theft website at consumer.ftc.gov/features/feature-0014-identity-theft\
Start With Trust®. For more consumer tips and information, go to bbb.org.
~ Luanne Kadlub, Communications Specialist, BBB Serving Northern Colorado and Wyoming. 970-488- 2044, Toll Free: 800-564-0370 Ext. 135, wynco.bbb.org