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Computer Virus and Tech Support Scam
The scammer wants you to think your computer or device has been infected with a virus and they pretend they are calling you from Microsoft to help you with it. They say if you don’t let them fix it, you’ll lose all your information on your computer. They instill fear and intimidate you because you don’t really know how your computer works. The caller will want to fix your problem – which doesn’t really exist — for a big fee, usually by installing free downloads. Be aware. When you give them your credit card number and remote access to your computer, they can sell your credit card information, charge you huge amounts of money for their services, and access and steal personal and financial information from your computer.
Click the play button below to watch a video example:
The first step is to identify the fraud. In the video above, were you able to hear the clues in the story and detect the Computer Virus and Tech Support Scam? The next step is to prevent the scammer from victimizing you or others. If you encounter a similar situation, use these tools to protect yourself from this type of fraud.
SPOT THE SCAM
Computer Virus and Tech Support Scam Clues-
Legitimate tech companies won’t contact you by phone, email or text message to tell you there’s a problem with your computer.
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If you get this kind of pop-up window on your computer, don’t call the number. Real security warnings and messages will never ask you to call a phone number.
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If someone calls to offer you a refund for tech support services you paid for, it’s likely a fake refund scam.
Tips to spot a Computer Virus and Tech Support Scam
STOP THE SCAM
Computer Virus and Tech Support Scam Defence-
Install a virus protection program on your computer before that ever happens.
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If a scammer calls to say your computer has a virus, hang up.
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Call someone you trust and have identified in advance to check out the claim that your computer is infected.
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Contact Microsoft or Apple directly.
Tips to stop a Computer Virus and Tech Support Scam
