When looking to service your computer, sometimes you might be referred to someone who is not really that good or is actually a scammer. Just recently, this happened with the supply chain, Office Depot, where employees were caught recommending unnecessary computer repairs to their clients. This has been found to be part of a larger series of tech support scams in the company.
The Office Depot Computer Tech Support Scams
This case saw the CBS-affiliated TV station KIRO-TV bringing their brand-new laptops to Office Depot for free computer health checks and being surprised to hear from the store employees that the computers were infected with malware. On certain occasions, they were recommended for repairs that cost about $180. But when they had the same laptops checked with the security firm, IOActive, they were told there was no malware.
According to the KIRO-TV, this occurred not only with the laptops they bought from other outlets, but also with the models that they actually purchased from Office Depot. Revealing the scheme, store employee, Shane Barnett, admitted that he actually warned his bosses against it, but was still compelled to go with it in order to meet quotas. Trying to fix the issue, Office Depot said that they will fully review the assertions and take appropriate actions.
To avoid becoming a victim of this kind of fraud, it is important to know how to spot and avoid it completely.
How to Spot Tech Support Scams
Tech support scams will target anybody, so you should be aware of its red flags. You will know if a computer repair service offered is bogus if:
1. They start with a cold and unsolicited phone call.
Tech support scams start with a cold call from someone who claims to be working on behalf of a known company, such as Microsoft or Apple. They will then say that there is something wrong with your computer, probably due to a virus infection. They’ll say unless you fix it quickly, more serious issues will arise. As a general rule, you should ignore this kind of call especially when the person asks you to pay a certain amount of money up front.
2. You are told that your computer is causing problems for other computers
Some tech support scammers would tell you that your computer has been sending out spam messages or errors that are giving other users some problems. However, this technique is just part of the scam to scare you into taking action.
3. They ask for remote access to your system.
A very dangerous part of falling for this type of scam is when you agree to go to a certain website and then install a tool. Often the scammer claims to be able to fix your computer remotely. In reality, they want to gain control over your system without your knowledge. Once in control, they can infect it with malware and steal personal information. You should never give away access to your computer unless you are familiar with the company and they have a good online reputation.
How to Avoid It
Tech support scams are becoming savvier and more cunning. As they will try to persuade you into their schemes, it’s important to know how to keep yourself from becoming a target. Here’s how:
1. Try to know as much as possible how your computer works.
The people who fall for tech support scams are mostly those who have little knowledge about their computers. So, take the time to be familiar with your device. That way you will immediately know if something is not right about what the computer repair technician is recommending.
2. Always do a background check.
When someone calls and claims to be working for a certain company, ask for proof. You should also perform a background check of the company by searching it on the web. This way, you will know whether or not they are involved in any fraudulent activities. One great way is to check the Better Business Bureau, or Yelp/Facebook reviews.
3. Just ignore them.
Even if you are not a very busy person, just put the phone down when you believe that the call is a scam. This will deny the scammer the chance to pursue his fraudulent act.
Measures to Take If You Do Fall for Tech Support Scams
If you are fooled by one of the many tech support scams out there, then act as soon as possible. If you have made a credit card transaction, contact your credit card company immediately for cancellation. You can also arrange a refund due to a fraudulent payment. Then, report the incident to the authorities to make them aware of such an activity. You can also take the issue to social media to inform your family and friends that tech support scams are targeting your social group.
Final Thoughts
To make sure that you are in good hands when getting a computer repair service, always find a reputable provider. This way, you are guaranteed that your device will be properly taken care of at the right cost.