Be wary of phone calls or online pop-up ads from companies claiming to offer tech support services for your computer. These scammers use software designed to trick consumers into thinking there are problems with their computers and then make high-pressure, deceptive sales pitches for needless or phony tech support services.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has recently cracked down on these scammers, but they continue to skirt authorities and target consumers. The Indiana Attorney General’s Telephone Privacy Division has received 559 complaints from Hoosiers about “tech support” calls this year.
Once they have you on the phone, these scammers might tell you they have detected virus activity on your computer, claim to be with a reputable computer company, and insist on remotely accessing your computer. They often use fear tactics, urging you to purchase security software or tech support services to fix critical problems with your computer. If they obtain access to your computer, they could install malware or change settings to make your computer more vulnerable.
“I know from first-hand experience how convincing and effective these scam artists can be,” said Indiana Attorney General Greg Zoeller. “My home office computer was targeted by one of these scams. I spent a few minutes on the phone with a telemarketer who told me my computer was infected and needed urgent attention before I realized it was a phony offer from an illegitimate software company. A red flag went up when they told me they needed to take over my computer remotely and would be charging me for services. These scams can seem legitimate and are easy to fall for. Always be on your guard.”
If you get a call like this, hang up immediately. If you are worried about your computer, call your security software company directly for assistance.
Follow these tips to guard against tech support scams:
• Never give any telemarketer remote access to your computer.
• Do not provide credit card or financial information to someone who calls and claims to be from tech support.
• If a caller pressures you to buy a computer security product or says there is a subscription fee associated with the call, hang up.
• Do not disclose computer passwords or other sensitive information over the phone.
Consumers who believe they have been targets or victims of a tech support scam should file a complaint with the Indiana Attorney General’s Office online at www.IndianaConsumer.com or by calling 1.888.834.9969.
To help prevent your phone number from being targeted by telemarketers, sign up for Indiana’s Do Not Call list by visiting www.IndianaConsumer.com or by calling 1.888.834.9969.
