In today’s digital world, tech support scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, posing a real threat to individuals and businesses alike. At BankProv, we’re committed to helping our clients stay informed about the latest scams and fraud tactics. Protecting our clients means more than just providing financial security—it’s about empowering you with the knowledge you need to defend against these types of attacks, both personally and professionally. Here’s what you need to know about tech support scams, along with some tips to help keep you safe.
What is a Tech Support Scam?
Tech support scams occur when a fraudster poses as a legitimate tech support agent, convincing you that there is a problem with your device, software, or online account. The scammer’s goal is to gain access to your computer or personal information, often to install malicious software or steal sensitive data. They often contact potential victims through pop-up ads, unsolicited phone calls, or emails, all of which look and sound legitimate.1
How to Spot a Tech Support Scam
Recognizing a tech support scam early is essential. Here are a few red flags to watch for:
- Unsolicited Contact: Reputable companies don’t contact customers out of the blue to report issues. If you receive a sudden phone call or message claiming to be from tech support, it’s likely a scam.
- Scare Tactics: Scammers often use high-pressure tactics to create a sense of urgency, such as claiming your computer is infected or your bank account has been compromised.
- Requests for Remote Access: A scammer may ask you to install software to let them remotely access your computer. Granting this access can give them control over your sensitive information.
- Request for Payment or Personal Information: Legitimate tech support agents won’t ask for personal details, credit card numbers, or payments to fix a problem. Requests for this type of information are often a telltale sign of a scam.
How to Avoid a Tech Support Scam
Awareness and prevention are key to staying safe from tech support scams. Here are a few steps to help protect yourself:
- Don’t Respond to Unsolicited Calls or Messages: If you receive an unexpected call or email from someone claiming to be from tech support, hang up or ignore it.
- Verify Claims: If someone contacts you about an issue, don’t provide any personal information. Instead, contact the company directly using a verified phone number or website to confirm whether the claim is legitimate.
- Install and Update Security Software: Having robust antivirus and anti-malware software on your devices can help detect and block suspicious activity.
- Be Cautious with Remote Access: Never grant remote access to your device unless you are certain you’re dealing with a legitimate support agent.
- Educate Your Team: Business clients should inform employees about tech support scams, particularly if they handle sensitive data or work with customer accounts.
How to Report a Tech Support Scam
If you suspect you’ve been targeted by a tech support scam, it’s essential to report it as soon as possible:
- Notify Your Bank: If you believe your financial information has been compromised, contact us immediately. We can help secure your accounts and prevent unauthorized transactions.
- Report to the Authorities: In the U.S., you can file a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ftc.gov/complaint or with your local law enforcement.
- Contact the Company: If the scammer impersonated a reputable company (like Microsoft or Apple), reach out to their customer support to report the incident.
Why We Keep Our Clients Informed
At BankProv, protecting your assets goes beyond financial security. By educating our clients about current scams, we’re helping to protect your sensitive data, preserve trust, and safeguard your business. Staying aware of the risks out there is the best defense against scams and fraud.
For more resources on staying secure, visit our Security Center, or contact our team—we’re here to help keep you informed and protected.
1Source: Tech Support Scams | Federal Trade Commission