Tech support scams rely on fear and confusion, but a few simple rules stop them cold.
How do tech support scams targeting elderly work?
The scam starts with alarm: a full-screen pop-up warning that your computer is infected, a phone call claiming to be from 'Microsoft' or 'Apple,' or an email about a suspicious charge. The message urges you to call a number or click a link. A fake 'technician' then asks to remote into your device, runs harmless-looking commands to 'prove' a problem, and demands payment by gift card, wire, or even access to your bank to issue a 'refund.' Once inside your computer, they can steal files, passwords, and money. The FTC reports tech-support scams are among the costliest frauds for older adults.
What are the rules that defeat tech support scams?
Memorize a few absolutes. Real tech companies never call you about a virus and never put a phone number in a virus warning. Never call the number in a pop-up, never let an unknown caller remote into your device, and never pay for 'support' with gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency. If a pop-up locks your screen, close the browser or restart the computer; the 'virus' usually disappears. Never give a 'refund' caller access to your bank, as the 'overpayment refund' trick is designed to move your real money. When unsure, step away and ask a trusted person or call 1-800-MEDIGAP.
What should I do if I let a scammer into my computer?
Act quickly. Disconnect the device from the internet, then have it checked or reset by a trusted technician to remove any remote-access software. Change passwords for email, banking, and key accounts from a different, secure device, and enable two-factor authentication. If you paid or shared financial details, contact your bank or card issuer immediately and report to ReportFraud.ftc.gov and the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-372-8311. Watch accounts for unauthorized activity and consider a credit freeze. Quick action limits what a scammer can do with access they gained.