Get the Help You Need While Avoiding the Trouble You Don’t

These days, you don’t have to be a technophobe to get fooled by scams. As criminals become more sophisticated, their messages and approaches have become convincing enough to fool anyone.

That’s especially true if you think your computer might be at risk. Tech support scammers often tell elaborate stories to convince people they need to hand over their financial information or remote access to their digital devices.

The Federal Trade Commission offers advice for times you’re unsure about someone claiming to offer technical support and provides steps you can take to protect yourself.

Real tech companies aren’t in the habit of reaching out by phone, email, or text message every time your computer might have a problem. If someone does, that’s a red flag.

Legitimate security pop-ups and messages will never tell you to call a phone number for help. If your computer’s security software detects a legitimate problem, it will likely recommend a virus scan and walk you through the process.

Look out for language telling you to move money to “protect it.” Scammers may suggest depositing money in a “federal safety locker” or buying gold to give to someone. These protections are fake, and a real government employee will not demand payment in gold or cash.