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 that your security subscription has been renewed without your consent. The goal is to convince you to grant remote access to your device or to make immediate payments for unnecessary services. (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. Legitimate companies rarely contact customers directly or display alarming messages on your device. (bulkorder.ftc.gov)
What Are the Best Practices to Avoid Tech Support Scams?
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Hang Up on Unsolicited Calls: If you receive an unexpected call claiming to be from tech support, hang up immediately. Legitimate companies do not make unsolicited calls. (bulkorder.ftc.gov)
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Do Not Click on Suspicious Links: Avoid clicking on links or calling numbers provided in pop-up messages or unsolicited emails. These are often tactics used by scammers to gain access to your device or personal information. (bulkorder.ftc.gov)
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Use Call Blocking Features: Many smartphones have built-in features to block unknown or suspicious calls. For example, iPhones offer a "Silence Unknown Callers" option, which silences calls from numbers not saved in your contacts. (robokiller.com)
How Can Call Blocking Apps Help Protect You?
Third-party call-blocking apps can provide an additional layer of protection by identifying and blocking scam calls. Robokiller, for instance, is a market-leading solution that effectively blocks unwanted calls and texts, including tech support scams. (robokiller.com)
What Are Some Additional Measures to Enhance Your Security?
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Report Suspicious Calls: If you receive a suspected scam call, report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at FTC.gov/complaint. This helps authorities track and combat fraudulent activities. (bulkorder.ftc.gov)
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Educate Yourself and Others: Stay informed about common scam tactics and share this knowledge with friends and family to help protect them as well.
By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to tech support scam calls and safeguard your personal information.
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
