Imposter crimes are on the rise, as digital tools make it easier than ever to target consumers. These crimes include something called "tech support scams". Ironically, scam artists will prey on your worries about cyber security and will pose as the good guys looking to "fix" your security breaches.
Tech support scammers can get their websites to show up on Google searches, further making them look legitimate. They might even use pop-up windows that mimic your own antivirus software by saying your computer has a virus. In 2023, fraudulent emails edged out phone calls as the most common method of contact, followed by phone calls, and then texts. So how can you tell the difference between real and fake security alarms? Real tech companies will never call, text, or email you about security issues. The best thing to do if a security window pops up is to run a security scan on your computer; that way you will know for sure if something is wrong.
Another type of tech support scams is something called ‘refund scams.’ This is when a fraud artist calls you and asks if you are happy with their security services (they will have been able to see that you are already paying for a tech service). If you say no, they will offer you a refund. Another version of this is they will say they are going out of business. Don’t buy it! Again, a real tech company will never call you.
Often, scammers will direct you to pay in ways that are hard to reverse: wire transfers, gift cards, pre-paid cards, cryptocurrency, or money transfer apps. They will rarely ask for your debit card information, because they know these sorts of transactions can usually be stopped in time.
Keep in mind scam artists are banking on appealing to your emotions; they will create a false sense of alarm and urgency to get you to act quickly, and against your better judgment. This emotional manipulation can cloud your sense of logic. So, when faced with any message claiming that your security has been hacked, stay calm and think things through.
Key takeaways to remember:
- Real tech companies will never call, email, or text you to get in touch with them.
- If you feel a sense of urgency or pressure, take a step back and reassess the situation
- If a security pop-up window appears on your screen, update your computer’s security and run a security scan
- Never give out your bank account or debit/ credit card information over the phone
- Don’t click on any links or call a toll-free number
Nusenda Credit Union is committed to protecting your safety. We believe ongoing education for our members will help prevent this from ever happening. In 2023, Nusenda Credit Union protected our members from over 7.3 million in fraud!
If at any point you are worried that your personal information has been compromised or if you are a victim of a financial scam, Nusenda Credit Union is here to help! Contact us immediately at 505-889-7755 (800-347-2838 outside the Albuquerque area) or visit any of our branch locations.
For more resources on how to protect your identity and finances online, visit Nusenda Credit Union’s Security Center.