Buyer Beware:Tech Support Scams Are Conning People Out Of HundredsBetter Business BureauYou’re on your computer when suddenly a pop-up message comes on the screen alerting you of a damaging computer virus. Moments later, the telephone rings and an individual informs you your computer has been hacked, but for a small fee, the caller will help you fix it. All you have to do is pay him or her and follow a few simple prompts to give the caller access to your computer. It seems like an efficient way to get rid of the virus, but the real problems have only just begun. Tech support scams have been impacting people for years. Not only can scammers obtain your documents and personal information, they are also able to obtain your financial information and withdraw funds or hack into your credit. Scammers often install malicious malware into your system causing additional damage. This isn’t a problem that is happening somewhere else. It’s happening in our own communities. Recently, a Fairborn woman reported receiving a phone call from one of these bogus tech support agencies and was informed her computer had been hacked. Upon agreeing to services, the scammers took her Social Security Number, photos, personal and financial information. She also reported the scammers were quite forceful with her and were angry when she wouldn’t cooperate. In total, she lost more than $550. In 2018, BBB received 2,536 nationwide reports from people about tech support scams through BBB Scam Tracker, an online tool that enables people to report scams in an effort to prevent others from falling prey to similar cons. The easy-to-use tool collects and presents scam data in a searchable online “heat map,” showing users the number and types of scams and hoaxes reported in their communities. According to Microsoft, over 11,000 complaints come in monthly from people who have been the victims of tech support scams. Microsoft receives high numbers of reports because their name as a reputable tech company is often used by the scammers to gain trust and credibility. Here are some tips to protect yourself from tech support scams:
John North, president & CEO of BBB serving Dayton/Miami Valley, says, “Be cautious of pop-ups on your devices. If you feel your device has been compromised, call the BBB to find a reputable computer repair business that will help you resolve your problem. It’s important to take the time to work with a legitimate company – like a BBB Accredited Business. It could save you hundreds of dollars.” These messages can be scary and pressure you into calling the phone number for help. But be assured, these scammers are not there to help. But, the BBB is there for you 24/7 to help you navigate the marketplace and avoid scams. About Your BBB Serving Dayton and the Miami Valley For more than 100 years, the Better Business Bureau has been helping people find businesses, brands and charities they can trust. In 2017, people turned to BBB more than 160 million times for BBB Business Profiles on more than 5.2 million businesses and Charity Reports on 11,000 charities, all available for free at bbb.org. | |
Alice Business Today 2019 - Februar 2019 |