Cold calling tech support scams are a growing concern as cyber criminals continue to exploit unsuspecting individuals. These scams involve unsolicited phone calls from fraudsters claiming to be representatives of reputable tech companies, offering to help with non-existent computer problems. In this article, we’ll dive into how these scams work and provide tips on how to avoid falling victim to them.
Cold calling tech support scams usually follow this pattern
– The scammer initiates an unsolicited call, claiming to be from a well-known tech company such as Microsoft or Apple.
– They inform the victim that their computer has been infected with a virus or malware, and that immediate action is required to prevent further damage or data loss.
– The scammer may use technical jargon to confuse the victim and create a sense of urgency.
– They then offer to fix the issue remotely, often for a fee, and request access to the victim’s computer.
– Once the scammer has access to the computer, they can install malware, steal personal information, or lock the victim out of their system until a ransom is paid.
What to watch out for
(The Red Flags of Cold Call Tech Support Scams)
– Unsolicited calls: Legitimate tech companies generally do not initiate contact with customers for tech support issues.
– Urgency: Scammers often create a sense of urgency to pressure victims into complying with their demands.
– Requests for remote access: Genuine tech support representatives will rarely, if ever, request remote access to your computer. Most of the services that they would need access to they can do so without your PC.
– Payment demands: Scammers may ask for payment in advance or request untraceable payment methods, such as gift cards or cryptocurrencies. These payment types are always scams, no legitimate company will take gift cards as payment, and very few accept cryptocurrencies.
How to Avoid Cold Calling Tech Support Scams
– Be cautious of unsolicited phone calls claiming to be from any tech support company. If you receive such a call, hang up immediately.
– Do not provide personal information or payment details to anyone over the phone unless you have verified their identity and the legitimacy of the call. The best way to verify the caller is to find the companies direct number and call inquiring about your account.
– If you suspect that your computer has been compromised, contact a local well known tech company or the relevant software or hardware provider using verified contact information from their official website.
– Keep your computer’s security software up to date and enable automatic updates to ensure you are protected from the latest threats. If you would like SureTech Services provides Antivirus protection for our clients.
– Educate yourself and your family members about the dangers of tech support scams, and share this knowledge with friends and colleagues.
What to Do If You Fall Victim to a Cold Call Tech Support Scam
If you suspect that you have fallen victim to a cold call tech support scam, take the following steps:
– Disconnect your computer from the internet to prevent further access by the scammer.
– Contact a local computer repair company to assess the situation.
– Run a full system scan using a reputable antivirus software to remove any malware that may have been installed.
– Change all your passwords, especially for online banking, email, and social media accounts.
– Report the scam to your local law enforcement agency and consumer protection organizations.
– Monitor your financial accounts for any signs of unauthorized activity.
Conclusion
Cold calling tech support scams are a growing threat in today’s digital age. By staying informed and vigilant, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from falling victim to these scams. Always be cautious when dealing with unsolicited phone calls, and remember that legitimate tech companies will never initiate contact with you to inform you of a virus or malware issue. Stay safe and stay informed!
