‘Tech Support’ scams hit personal computers in California
On Friday, California Attorney General Xavier Becerra issued a consumer alert to warn Californians about “tech support” scams targeting personal computers. And the Federal Trade Commission announced it will be conducting an aggressive sweep targeting tech support scams nationwide.
A scam artist posing as a tech support person will often attempt to gain access to the unwary consumer’s computer or credit card with variations of the following statements:
Viruses or malware have been found on your computer and need to be eliminated immediately; Your computer will suffer imminent harm if you do not buy the software, allow tech support to fix the problem, or provide remote access to your computer; You must search for particular files on your computer. When you find the files, which are usually harmless or related to legitimate programs, the scammer may try to trick you into believing that you need to buy useless software to delete them.
“Millions of Californians rely on computers for banking, shopping, school work and much more,” said Attorney General Becerra. “While technology makes our lives easier, it also creates opportunities for scams. Californians should be particularly wary of anyone asking for money or private information online or over the phone.”
According to the Attorney General’s advisory, tech support scams often begin either by phone or online, via a pop-up window requesting to chat with a user or directing people to call a phone number to fix a computer problem. The scam can also start with an email or text message warning of a computer vulnerability and directing users to visit a website or call a phone number.
After that, the scammer pretends to be a computer technician working for a reputable technology company or internet service provider and tries to gain personal information from the victim.
Attorney General Becerra released a new consumer protection guide with practical ways for Californians to protect themselves against tech scams. The guide includes tips on what to look out for, ways to protect yourself against phony tech support, what to do if scammed, and instructions for filing a complaint with the California Attorney General’s Office.
If you feel you’ve been targeted by a tech support scam, you should file a complaint with the California Attorney General’s Office.
Victims may also call (800) 952-5225 or send a letter to: California Department of Justice, Public Inquiry Unit, P.O. Box 944255, Sacramento, CA 94244-2550.
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