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Fraud Prevention
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Watchdog Alerts |
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| Tech Support Scams Remain Rampant |
| Hello,
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Imagine you’re browsing the internet when out of nowhere, a message pops up accompanied by a blaring sound warning you that your device is infected with a virus. This happened to Helen, a retiree in her 80s. Panicked by the warning, she followed on-screen instructions and phoned the tech support number provided. The criminals pretending to be tech support inevitably stole nearly all of her life savings.
Sadly, Helen’s story is far too common. This tech support scam has been around a long time, but technological advances and new twists have allowed the crime to flourish. Here’s what to know to protect yourself and your loved ones.
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| More from the AARP Fraud Watch Network |
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| How It Works
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A pop-up notice, often accompanied by a blaring siren-like sound, claims there’s something wrong with your device.
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The maddening sound doesn’t stop, and the page won’t close.
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The pop-up includes a toll-free number, which it claims will connect you to tech support associated with a big name such as Microsoft or Norton.
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Tech support impostors say they require remote access to the device to detect the problems.
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That’s where things can go very wrong.
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| What You Should Know
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A version of this fraud attack convinces the target to pay to fix the problem and pay more to enroll in a nonexistent support plan.
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In a newer twist, criminals use remote access to plant login-stealing malware designed to expose your usernames and passwords to all of your accounts, including financial ones.
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More complex fraud attacks begin with tech support, then evolve into bank and government impersonation schemes that end with criminals wiping out the victim’s financial accounts.
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| What You Should Do
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If this happens to you or a loved one, contact your financial institution immediately to see if it can stop the flow of funds, then report the crime to the police so you have a record of it in case there is restitution.
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If you get a pop-up that won’t close, shut down your device (on a laptop, hold the power button down until the computer shuts off).
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When prompted to update your operating systems and antivirus software, do it right away, or better yet, set them to automatically update. These updates may address vulnerabilities.
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If you suspect an issue with your device, take it to a big-box store that offers tech support or to a trusted technician.
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| Knowledge gives you power over scams. The AARP Fraud Watch Network™ equips you with reliable, up-to-date insights and connects you to our free fraud helpline so you can better protect yourself and loved ones. We also advocate at the state, federal and local levels to enact policy changes that protect consumers and enforce laws. |
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Sincerely,
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| Kathy Stokes |
| AARP Fraud Watch Network |
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| And one more thing…
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| AARP Fraud Watch Network™ offers free emotional support sessions for people affected by fraud. Trained peer facilitators conduct hour-long small group online sessions. Experiencing fraud can be devastating, but it doesn’t have to define you. Learn More.
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When it comes to fraud, vigilance is our number one weapon. You have the power to protect yourself and your loved ones from scams. Please share this alert with friends and family and visit the AARP Fraud Watch Network™ for more information.
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