The internet is both a blessing and a curse. On the one hand, it has provided the world with an immense fountain of readily accessible knowledge, the ability to form businesses and generate huge amounts of revenue from people all around the world, and it has undoubtedly opened up new avenues of self-expression and the chance for the voiceless to finally have a voice. However, these amazing leaps in freedom and knowledge have also, unfortunately, come with a long list of downsides that are hard to avoid. Perhaps the most common issue with the web being such an open place is the advent of new and novel ways for people who don’t share the same values as others to take advantage and prey on the weak via a slew of scams and other nefarious actions. This post will delve into the murkier side often the web and proffer a few tips for those who don’t want to fall victim to these scams and remain benefiting from all the amazing things the internet can offer.
They Tend To Target Vulnerable Demographics
As tech support scams continue to rise unabated, consumers need to be aware of who these scams target and how to protect themselves by using this knowledge. Tech support scams (as do almost all types of fraudulent online activity) usually prey on those they perceive to be vulnerable groups who may be less tech-savvy or more easily confused by scare tactics. However, the unfortunate nature of being in this group also means that you could receive a call from an unknown number and believe that there is a scam likely to occur simply based on your age or demographic. Fortunately, most legitimate businesses will use some form of technology, such as STIR/SHAKEN, to help them avoid this mislabeling. Nevertheless, it’s vital to understand that most senior citizens are frequently targeted as scammers are well aware that older individuals may feel less confident in their ability to diagnose specific tech issues themselves (or be remiss to ask younger family members out of a misplaced fear of wasting their time). Those who grew up with technology coming later in life can also fall victim simply because they have less experience identifying scams. Scammers may overwhelm these targets with fake error messages and threats to take advantage of shorter patience for troubleshooting. Even tech-savvy individuals have been misled before, so it’s important anyone can learn to spot the telltale signs of a scam. By understanding what groups are most often targeted, consumers can take preventive measures to protect themselves and pass on guidance to those in their social circles who may be at higher risk. With vigilance, consumers can enjoy new technologies without fear of falling for fake support scams.
Urgent And Aggressive Tactics Used
Perhaps the most common indicative sign that you are being targeted is the use of overly aggressive tactics, which should not be part of any reputable organization’s objective. Nefarious actors who carry out fake tech support or other online scams will often employ a sense of urgency and aggression in their tactics to overwhelm their victims and prevent critical thinking. They may call, posing as representatives from well-known companies, and immediately claim a range of things that sound pretty terrifying to the average person. Rather than calmly explaining any alleged issues, scammers have been known to shout or yell at victims while insisting they log into their devices remotely right away. This leaves the target feeling panicked and less likely to verify the call’s authenticity before agreeing to remote access. Once in control of the device, scammers can install malware, steal passwords, or access financial accounts. Another urgency tactic they will utilize comes straight out of the handbook of any pushy salesperson you have ever encountered, vis a vis time limits, i.e., you won’t have a brief window of time to remedy a virus or security flaw before facing severe consequences like frozen accounts or identity theft. With the threat of such problems escalating rapidly, it’s easy to see why the sense of urgency alone can compel even those less likely to fall for such scams to hand over control to the scammers.
Claiming To Be From Microsoft And Other Large Corporations
Almost all scammers have found success in pretending to contact victims on behalf of trusted technology firms. By claiming to be associated with well-known brands like Microsoft, Apple, or various other large entities, scammers hope to deceive targets into a false sense of security. Posing as representatives from massive firms gives scammers the appearance of legitimacy they need to manipulate victims. Most people have used software or devices from tech giants and assume any contact from them must be genuine. However, corporations like Microsoft and Apple will never cold call users unsolicited. Consumers must always remain vigilant that large corporations will never make unplanned outbound calls for tech support. In fact, when you realize how counterproductive to their bottom line this could be, you will put yourself in a better position to avoid them in the future. In reality, any firm reaching out about suspicious activity would provide verifiable ways to contact them, like phone numbers or dedicated contact forms on their web pages.
Requesting Remote Access To Your Computer
One of the biggest red flags of an online scam is when the caller requires remote access to the victim’s computer. Legitimate companies do not need to directly connect to users’ devices without permission to provide assistance. However, scammers rely on gaining this access to manipulate people and systems. Scammers claim they must connect remotely to inspect computers for infections and issues. But once connected, they can install malware, steal passwords and financial information, or spy through your webcam.
Providing Fake Refunds For Products And Services You Never Bought
Some scams state the consumer has overpaid for past software upgrades or maintenance plans. The criminal pretends to provide refunds to bank accounts but instead uses the access to drain victims’ funds. Other times, scammers say a company billing error entitles the target to a refund for products like antivirus software or operating system licenses they did not purchase. Unsuspecting consumers may not realize no such transaction occurred. Of course, legitimate vendors do not make unplanned outgoing calls to issue refunds. Responsible companies never demand direct remote access or banking login credentials to process reimbursements.
Online scams are rife throughout the web and show no signs of slowing down (they simply make too much cash for those on the other side of the phone). However, understanding how their modus operandi allows you to avoid them and go about your digital life safe from most threats.
