Tech support scam calls are a pervasive threat, with one in four Americans reporting receiving at least one deepfake voice call in the past year. (techradar.com) These scams often involve fraudulent callers posing as legitimate tech support agents to steal personal information or money. To protect yourself, consider the following strategies:
What Are Tech Support Scam Calls?
Tech support scam calls typically involve fraudsters impersonating representatives from reputable companies like Microsoft or Apple. They may claim your computer is infected with malware or has a security issue, urging you to grant remote access or pay for unnecessary services. Legitimate companies rarely contact customers unsolicited for tech support. (bulkorder.ftc.gov)
How Can You Recognize a Tech Support Scam?
Common signs of a tech support scam include unsolicited calls or pop-up messages claiming your device is compromised, requests for remote access to your computer, and demands for immediate payment for services. Always be cautious of unexpected communications from unknown sources. (bulkorder.ftc.gov)
What Are Effective Call-Blocking Tools?
Utilizing call-blocking tools can significantly reduce unwanted calls. Many smartphones offer built-in features:
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iOS Devices: Enable "Silence Unknown Callers" by navigating to Settings > Phone.
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Android Devices: Activate spam protection settings through the Phone app's settings menu.
Additionally, third-party apps like Robokiller provide advanced filtering and spoofed-number detection, effectively blocking scam calls. (robokiller.com)
How Can You Report Tech Support Scams?
Reporting suspected tech support scams helps authorities track and combat these fraudulent activities. In the U.S., you can file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at FTC.gov/complaint. (bulkorder.ftc.gov)
What Are Additional Preventive Measures?
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Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Calls: Hang up on unexpected calls claiming to be tech support.
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Avoid Clicking Suspicious Links: Do not click on links or call numbers from pop-up messages warning of computer problems.
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Verify Contact Information: If you receive a suspicious call, contact the company directly using official contact details to verify the claim.
By staying informed and utilizing available tools, you can effectively protect yourself from tech support scam calls.
Highlights:
- Microsoft is finally clamping down on scam attacks with new "scareware" sensor - here's what you need to know, Published on Tuesday, November 04
- Say goodbye to spam calls - NordVPN launches new spam call protection, Published on Tuesday, July 29
- Deepfake worries hit a new high as one in four Americans say they have received a deepfake voice call in the past 12 months - experts blame 'the weaponization of AI', Published on Saturday, March 14
