Scam Alert: Tech Support Scams Get a New Twist

Better Business Bureau

In most tech supports scams, a “representative” helps you “fix” a computer problem you didn’t realize you had - for a fee. As more people catch on to this popular scam, con artists find new twists on the same old trick. This time, it involves offering you a refund.
How the Scam Works
You receive a call from a person who claims to represent a reputable tech company, such as Apple, Dell, or Microsoft. They tell you that they noticed a fraudulent charge for a tech support product, and they owe you a refund.
However, to receive your refund, they’ll ask you to share sensitive personal information. They may also ask for you to log in to specific accounts or grant them access to your computer. In some cases, they even insist that the only way for you to get your money back is to purchase pre-paid debit cards and give them the card numbers. 
How to Avoid the Tech Support Refund Scam
·       Be wary of unsolicited calls. Legitimate tech companies don’t make unsolicited calls to their customers. This is a popular scam tactic.
·       Never grant a stranger remote access to your computer. Scammers can steal your personal information and install malware that is used to commit identity theft.
·       Beware of anyone asking for untraceable payments. Scammers often ask for payment by wire transfer, gift card, or pre-paid debit cards. Legitimate companies do not ask to be paid in this way.
For More Information
Learn more about tech support scams at BBB.org/TechSupportScams. You can also read about the BBB Study Pop-Ups and Impostors: A BBB Study of the Growing Worldwide Problem of Tech Support Scams.
If you have been a victim of a tech support scam, help other consumers avoid falling into the same trap by filling out a report  at BBB.org/ScamTracker.  
If you have been the victim of identity theft, go to IdentityTheft.gov for a personalized recovery plan from the Federal Trade Commission.