By The Computer Solution llc 31 May, 2023

Tech Support Pop-Up Scams

How to Protect Yourself from These Dangerous Deceptions

Have you ever been browsing the internet when suddenly your screen fills with an alarming message? "WARNING! Your computer is infected! Call this 800 number immediately!" Your heart races as you think, "But I haven't clicked on anything suspicious." That moment of doubt is exactly what these scammers are counting on.

Understanding Tech Support Pop-Up Scams

These increasingly sophisticated scams have become a serious threat to computer users everywhere. The scenario typically unfolds like this: You're having a normal day online when an aggressive pop-up appears, complete with flashing warnings and often accompanied by alarming sounds. The message claims to be from a trusted company like Microsoft or Apple, warning about viruses or security threats on your computer.

The scammers' strategy is brilliantly simple yet deeply manipulative. They create a moment of panic, then conveniently offer an immediate solution – just call their "help desk" number. It's a carefully crafted psychological trap, and even tech-savvy individuals can fall victim during a moment of uncertainty.

“CYBERCRIMINALS ARE CONSTANTLY COMING UP WITH NEW WAYS TO RIP OFF UNSUSPECTING CONSUMERS, AND THIS LATEST TACTIC HAS RESULTED IN STAGGERING LOSSES."

Joseph R. Bonavolonta, special agent in charge
of the FBI Boston Division

Why These Scams Are So Dangerous

Once you make that call, the real danger begins. The scammer, posing as a legitimate tech support representative, will persuasively convince you to grant them remote access to your computer. From this point, they're operating with two sinister objectives:
1. Maintain your fear level to keep you engaged while they work
2. Rapidly harvest every piece of valuable information from your computer:

• Password
• Banking details
• Credit card information
• Personal documents
• Email access

They're racing against time, trying to steal as much as possible before you realize something isn't right.

Three Essential Steps to Protect Yourself

1. Never Grant Remote Access to Strangers
This is the golden rule of computer security. Legitimate companies like Microsoft, Apple, Amazon, or Dell will never:

• Monitor your computer without your knowledge
• Contact you about viruses they've "detected"
• Request remote access to your computer

If someone asks for remote access and you didn't contact them first, it's almost certainly a scam.

2. Invest in Quality Internet Security
Not all antivirus software is created equal. Many well-known brands don't effectively block these scam pop-ups, even with a paid subscription. If you're investing in security software, it should actually protect you. Consider upgrading to a solution that specifically targets and blocks these deceptive pop-ups and scam websites.

3. When in Doubt, Reach Out to Local Experts
If you're unsure about any security warning or pop-up, contact a trusted local professional. At The Computer Solution, we're here to help verify threats and keep your computer safe. Think of us as your personal tech security consultants – it's always better to ask questions first rather than deal with the aftermath of a scam.

Important Recovery Steps

If you've already granted remote access to someone you now suspect was a scammer, take these immediate actions:

• Disconnect your computer from the internet
• Contact us immediately
• Have all remote access software professionally removed
• Start changing your account passwords
• Contact your bank and credit card companies so they can monitor your accounts for suspicious activity

Protect Yourself Today

Don't wait until you're facing a scary pop-up to think about computer security. Take proactive steps now:

• Install reliable security software - we can help you get effective security software for a very reasonable price
• Keep your operating system updated
• Create strong passwords - see our article about password strength
• Back up your important data
• Save our number: (970) 426-5486

Concerned about your computer's security? Don't wait until it's too late. Contact The Computer Solution today for a comprehensive security check-up and professional protection against these sophisticated scams. Call (970) 426-5486 or visit our website to learn more about our professional security services.