11.25.2024

Shield Yourself from Tech Support Scams

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Tech support scammers aim to convince you that your computer is suffering from serious issues, such as a virus. Their goal is to charge you for unnecessary tech support services to fix a problem that likely doesn't exist. They often request payment through methods that are difficult to reverse, including wiring money, purchasing gift cards, using prepaid cards, cryptocurrency, or money transfer apps. Familiarizing yourself with their tactics can help you avoid becoming a victim. ​​​​​​
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Common Scams

Scammers frequently initiate contact through phone calls, posing as technicians from reputable companies. They claim to have detected problems with your computer and usually request remote access to perform a "diagnostic test." If you receive an unexpected call about a computer problem, it's best to hang up immediately.

Another tactic involves pop-up windows that appear on your screen, resembling error messages from your operating system or antivirus software. These messages may display logos from trusted companies and warn you about a supposed security issue, prompting you to call a listed number for assistance. Scammers also attempt to get their websites to appear in online searches for tech support or run ads that lead you to contact them. ​​​​​​
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Protecting Yourself

To safeguard against these scams, keep the following tips in mind:
  • Be cautious of unsolicited contacts: If a company reaches out to you requesting personal financial information or offering technical support, it is likely a scam. Legitimate tech companies do not contact individuals via phone, email, or text to report issues.
  • Watch for urgent payment requests: Scammers often pressure you to make immediate payments through methods like gift cards or cryptocurrency.
  • Ignore suspicious pop-ups: Real tech companies will never ask you to call a number or click a link through a pop-up warning.
  • Be careful with downloads: Only download software from trusted sources to avoid malware.
  • Keeping your browser up-to-date can also help block known scam sites and enhance your online security.
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What to Do If You Fall Victim

If you have paid a tech support scammer using a credit or debit card, contact your financial institution immediately. For payments made with gift cards, reach out to the issuing company right away. If you granted remote access to your computer, update your security software, run a full system scan, and remove any flagged issues. For further assistance, seek help from a trusted or contact a reputable software support services like Microsoft or Apple.

If you shared your online banking credentials with a scammer, change your password immediately and notify your bank or financial institution. Use strong, unique passwords for all your accounts to protect your information. If you encounter a tech support scam, report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

At Michigan First, our top priority is protecting you and your money. We make substantial investments in resources to maintain the confidentiality and security of your personal information. Use above the information to help keep yourself and loved ones protected against fraud but know that fraud schemes are surfacing every day. Stay up to date and informed by visiting MichiganFirst.com/Fraud and monitoring trends on the Federal Trade Commission website.

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