Protecting yourself from Microsoft tech support scams

Tech support scammers are modern-day con artists, preying on our deepest technological fears and vulnerabilities. Tammy of Flagler Beach, Florida, recently reached out to us with a concerning email:

We're sorry to hear that you're experiencing this issue. Tammy's experience is a classic example of a prevalent tech support scam that has been targeting unsuspecting users. It's important to note that Microsoft will never proactively reach out to you to provide unsolicited PC or technical support. These criminals have evolved their tactics to easily convince you that your computer has a critical problem needing immediate attention. 

Any communication they have with you must be initiated by you. If you receive a phone call or pop-up window from someone claiming to be from Microsoft, and they tell you that your computer has a problem or has been hacked, it's likely a scam. 

Tech support scammers have become master manipulators, using psychological tactics to exploit your fears and vulnerabilities. Here are the six most common warning signs that you're being targeted by a sophisticated tech support scam:

Unsolicited contact: Be wary of unexpected calls, emails or pop-ups claiming your device is compromised.

Urgency and scare tactics: Scammers often create a sense of panic, claiming hackers could access your devices and data imminently.

Requests for remote access: A major red flag is if someone you didn't contact asks to remotely access your computer.

Pressure for immediate payment: Be suspicious of demands for payment, especially via non-reversible methods like gift cards, wire transfers or cryptocurrency.

Impersonation of reputable companies: Scammers may claim to be from well-known tech companies like Microsoft or Apple.

Suspicious pop-up messages: Be cautious of pop-up warnings about viruses or system issues, especially those with countdown timers.

To quickly secure your information and minimize potential damage, follow these steps.

1) Disengage immediately: Hang up the phone or close any suspicious pop-ups.

2) Disconnect from the internet: This can prevent potential remote access by scammers.

3) Do not provide remote access: Never give control of your device to unsolicited callers.

Identity theft companies can monitor personal information like your Social Security number, phone number and email address and alert you if it is being sold on the dark web or being used to open an account. They can also assist you in freezing your bank and credit card accounts to prevent further unauthorized use by criminals. 

8) Invest in personal data removal services: Using a data removal service can be an effective additional step to protect your personal information after a potential tech support scam. These services locate and remove your personal information from various online platforms, databases and data brokers. By eliminating unnecessary or outdated information, data removal services minimize your online presence, making it harder for scammers to find and exploit your data.

9) Contact professionals: If you're unsure about any steps or if the situation seems severe, consider reaching out to a professional IT service.

Remember, it's important to stay calm and take one step at a time.

Tech support scams are designed to exploit fear and technical uncertainty. Remember that legitimate tech companies will never proactively contact you about computer issues. Always verify support through official channels, and when in doubt, consult with a trusted tech-savvy friend or professional.

Follow Kurt on his social channels:

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

New from Kurt:

Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.