Phishing Scam Masking as Tech Support

Your computer isn’t infected, and you don’t have to pay to clean it out.

Who Is It Targeting: Computer users

What Is It: Phishing scam that masks as tech support

What Are They After: This scam is not new, but the recent resurgence has prompted groups like the Better Business Bureau to issue warnings about it. This scam can come in the form of a phone call, email, text message, or even pop-up box, telling you that your computer is infected with a virus and that you must act now to remove it.

By phone or email, the scammer takes all manner of personal information and even payment. By text or popup box, you’re usually directed to click a link or a button. This either takes you to a form to submit your identifying information and money or even installs a virus on your computer.

How Can You Avoid It:

• Tech companies do not sit and monitor your computer use for viruses.
• Anyone who contacts you and says there’s a report of a virus on your computer is lying.
• Never give your information or your money to anyone who contacts you out of the blue.

If you think you may be a victim of identity theft, contact the Identity Theft Resource Center for toll-free, no-cost assistance at (888) 400-5530. Find more information about current scams and alerts here. For full details of this scam check out this article from WBRC.com.