Seemingly urgent security messages could lead to tech support scams

SOURCE: Federal Trade Commission

You’re online and get a message or pop-up alerting you to a problem with your computer. The message might even say or suggest it’s from Microsoft, Apple, or Geek Squad. Should you click immediately to see what it’s about? No, and here’s why.

That urgent pop-up message saying there’s something wrong with your computer could be a way to get you into a tech support trap. Scammers impersonate well-known companies to get you to trust them and call. What happens next? If you click on the link or call a phone number in a pop-up warning, they might say your device is infected (which is a lie). Then they’ll try to sell you a “solution” (which is a scam) and ask you to pay for a bogus tech support service.

Here’s one way to be sure you spot a scam: Security pop-up warnings from real tech companies will never ask you to call a phone number. If you’re worried about missing a real security threat, slow down instead of clicking or calling. To find out whether there’s a problem with your computer, first update your computer’s security software and run a scan. If you need help fixing a problem, go to a company you know and trust. Some stores that sell computer equipment also offer technical support in person. And many companies offer tech support online, but be sure to get in touch with them using the contact information listed on their official company website.

Now that you’ve got this, Pass It On! Talking about scams is one of the best tools we have to fight against scams. Share what you know to help others spot and avoid tech support scams. And if you see a pop-up scam, tell the FTC at  ReportFraud.ftc.gov.