Tech Support Scams Dramatically Increasing
Tech support scams, in which consumers are tricked into believing there is a problem with their computers, are on the rise. The scammers alert users to a fake problem, then pose as customer support employees for the major tech companies to “fix” it.
According to the FBI, losses from tech support scams in 2024 reached $1.464 billion — $500 million more than 2023, and an 87% increase from 2022.
Who is getting tricked? Microsoft found that Millennials and Gen Z were victimized by tech support scams more than any other demographic group.
The scams often start with pop-up notices of non-existent security problems. Often, your computer screen freezes. The notices warn you not shut down or restart your computer because it would cause serious damage to your computer. (It won’t.) Of course, the pop-ups include a helpful telephone number for you to call to resolve the issue.
Don’t call. Shut down the computer and restart. If you’re still concerned that there may be an issue, go directly to the vendor’s verified website.