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Tech support scams are more common than you’d think. With everything being digital these days, cybercriminals have endless ways to exploit people. Oftentimes, these types of scams can be really convincing, making it hard for you to spot them. Having the knowledge of what to look for can help you avoid falling victim to tech support scams. Here’s a look at six red flags you should watch for so that you can protect yourself to the fullest.
1. Unsolicited Phone Calls or Pop-Up Messages
You probably get a ton of calls to your cell phone on a daily basis that are labeled “Potential Spam.” This is one of the most common tactics that tech support scammers use to reach out to people. You might even get a text message prompting you to click a link. Whatever you do, don’t click it! Legitimate companies, such as Microsoft or Apple, will never initiate contact with you to offer tech support unless you have specifically requested it. If you receive a random phone call claiming to be from a reputable tech company, hang up immediately.
2. Requests for Remote Access to Your Computer
Asking for remote access to your computer is a HUGE red flag. Any legit tech support won’t ask for remote access without your consent. Even then, it should only be done in very specific situations. If someone asks you to download remote access software like TeamViewer or AnyDesk during a cold call or unsolicited message, it’s a clear sign of a scam. Once connected, the scammer may make unnecessary changes to your system or ask for your credit card details. Always decline any requests for remote access unless you are absolutely certain the request is legitimate.
3. Over-Exaggerated Claims About System Issues
Scammers often try to create a sense of panic, claiming that your computer is infected with viruses or that it’s being hacked. They might say that your system is running dangerously slow or that you are at risk of losing important data. These exaggerated claims are meant to pressure you into acting quickly without thinking critically. If the person on the other end is overemphasizing the urgency of the situation or making outlandish claims, that’s a huge red flag. Legitimate tech support will take a more measured approach, diagnosing issues carefully and not using scare tactics to manipulate you into taking immediate action. If it feels too dramatic, it probably is.
4. Requests for Payment via Unconventional Methods
Actual tech support services will have secure, conventional payment methods. They won’t ask you to send payment via wire transfer, gift cards, or crypto payments. This is one of the biggest red flags that something is amiss. If you’re asked to purchase gift cards and provide the codes to someone over the phone or online, that’s a definite indication you’re being scammed. Always question any payment requests that seem unusual or involve untraceable methods of payment.
5. Spelling and Grammar Errors in Communication
This is something they test us on regularly at work. Occasionally, they’ll send out a test phishing email meant to catch us falling for a scam. One of the biggest tells is spelling and grammar errors in communication. The same is true with actual scammers. Major companies like Microsoft and Apple maintain professional standards in their communications, so any communication with errors should raise an alarm. These mistakes can be a sign that the scammer is not affiliated with the company they claim to represent.
6. Too Good to Be True “Free” Services
If it seems too good to be true, it probably is! Scammers will frequently offer “free” services. While it might be appealing, this is a tactic to get you roped into their scam. These “free” services are used to build trust and convince you to provide sensitive information or make an unexpected payment. Once the scammer has access to your system or personal details, they will begin demanding payment for repairs or upgrades that were never necessary in the first place. If the offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Be cautious about any “free” service that involves giving out personal information.
Stay Vigilant and Protect Yourself from Scams
These types of scams have become more sophisticated in recent years, making them even harder to detect. However, when you are equipped with the right knowledge, you know how to protect yourself. Be aware of the red flags discussed here so that you can quickly spot any tech support scam from a mile away.
Have you ever been targeted by these types of scams?
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Drew Blankenship is a former Porsche technician who writes and develops content full-time. He lives in North Carolina, where he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. While Drew no longer gets his hands dirty modifying Porsches, he still loves motorsport and avidly watches Formula 1.