FBI Warns Of PC And Tech Support Scams; Here's What To Look Out For

Tech support scams might be something that you've all heard of before, but that doesn't make them any less dangerous.

The FBI recently issued a public service announcement, warning people to be on the lookout for computer-technical support scams, which have been on the rise as of late.

Scammers typically perpetrate such scams by posing as customer service or technical support representatives for a legitimate company.

They routinely contact the victim via phone or email, claiming that an annual subscription service, often a computer protection plan or a warranty, is about to renew. The services usually cost between $300 and $500.

Targets are further told to contact scammers to cancel the renewal and receive a full refund. Those who do are then persuaded to download remote desktop protocol software, supposedly to help the fake tech support cancel the subscription and issue a refund.

Installing the software gives the scammer access to the victim's computer. They tell the victim that the money has been refunded and encourage them to log into their online banking account for confirmation. If they do, the perpetrators can steal their banking details. Anyone who seems unsure is usually offered extra money for compliance.

After accessing the computers, scammers have the ability to lock the victim out of their device or place a black screen as they conduct unauthorized wire transfers to external bank accounts. They sometimes deposit money into victims' accounts "by mistake" and ask them to correct it through a victim-initiated wire transfer, which is then used to empty accounts into foreign banks.

What exactly is a tech support scam and how does it work?

Tech support scams usually take place when a defrauder posing as a representative from a tech company or service tries to gain access to your personal information or internet banking details by tricking you into thinking that they need to fix some technical issue with your computer.

Scammers often do this by starting a chat with you, calling you out of the blue, or even popping up a warning message on your screen.

If you ever find yourself in this situation, the best thing to do is just hang up or close the chat window and report it to the authorities.

How to avoid becoming a victim of a tech support scam?

There are a few things you can do to avoid becoming a victim of a tech support scam. First, be wary of any unsolicited calls or emails that claim to be from a tech support company. If you didn't initiate the contact, it's probably a scam.

Second, don't give out any personal or financial information unless you are sure you are dealing with a legitimate company.

And third, if you have any doubts at all, hang up the phone or close the email and contact the company using a legitimate customer service number or email address.