We want to ensure you are informed about common tech scams that could put your sensitive information and finances at risk. Understanding these scams and recognizing the warning signs can help you stay protected. Here are some of the tactics scammers use:
- Posing as Tech Support: Scammers often pretend to be from well-known companies such as IBM, Microsoft, Apple, or antivirus software companies. You might receive a phone call or email from someone posing as a technician from one of these companies. Alternatively, you may see a pop-up message on your computer that looks like an error message from your operating system or antivirus software.
- Using Technical Jargon: These messages often contain technical terms to make the problem appear real. Scammers may ask you to open files or run a scan on your computer.
- Requesting Passwords and Remote Access: This can give them access to information on your computer and the network it’s connected to, including your saved passwords and bank accounts.
- Installing Malware: They may install malware to mine data, gather information such as names, phone numbers, addresses, and passwords, or track keystrokes.
- Claiming Fraudulent Transactions: Scammers may claim there are fraudulent transactions on your account and connect you with someone pretending to be from your bank to steal your banking information.
- Selling Fake Repairs or Software: They may try to sell you repairs or software for non-existent problems or enroll you in useless warranty or maintenance programs.
- Collecting Credit Card Information: Scammers might ask for your credit card information to bill you for phony services.
- Requesting Payments: Scammers may ask you to pay for services by wiring money, using a money transfer app, purchasing gift cards, or going to a Bitcoin ATM. They may also tell you to withdraw funds from your bank and lie about the transaction.
Website Scams
Additionally, website scams are increasingly common and involve the creation of spoof websites that look identical to legitimate ones, such as the Androscoggin Bank website. These fake websites are designed to deceive you into entering your login information, which the scammers can then use to access your accounts.
These sites can be very convincing, mimicking the look, feel, and even the URL structure of the real site. Often, scammers will send you links via email, text, or pop-ups that direct you to these fake websites; sometimes these websites can even appear organically in Google. Once you land on the website you might be prompted to enter your username, password, and other sensitive information. In some cases, these fake websites will also trigger pop-up windows asking for additional login details or personal information. It’s crucial to always verify the URL before entering any personal information.
How to Protect Yourself
- If you receive a call or email out of the blue claiming you need tech support, it is likely a scam. Hang up and do not call the numbers provided in the email or pop-up messages.
- If a pop-up message seems legitimate, contact the company directly using the phone number from their official website, not the number provided in the message.
- Always verify the URL before entering any personal information. Ensure it says “androscogginbank.com” and is spelled correctly.
- Be cautious of the links you click in emails, texts, or pop-ups. Scammers often use these methods to direct you to fake websites.
- Some pop-ups are designed to look legitimate and ask for login information. Do not enter your credentials through pop-up windows.
What to do if You Fall Victim
If you fall victim to a scam of any kind, take immediate action:
- If scammers accessed your online banking, notify us immediately.
- Contact a tech security professional to check if your computer is infected with malware and to help remove it.
- Report the incident to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). This helps authorities stop scammers and build cases against them.
Tech problems can be frustrating, but scammers can make them much worse. Stay vigilant and protect yourself by understanding the tactics used and taking appropriate precautions. If you would like to learn more about scams and how to avoid them, please visit https://www.banksneveraskthat.com/.
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