Hang Up on Tech Support Scams!

“Your computer is infected with viruses! Call now!”

“Your security subscription has expired. Immediate action required!”

“We detected suspicious activity on your device and need remote access to fix it.”

These alarming messages are often part of a tech support scam. Scammers pose as representatives from well-known technology companies and try to convince you that your computer, smartphone, or online accounts are at risk. Their goal is to gain access to your device, steal your personal information, or trick you into sending money.

How do tech support scams work?

Tech support scams often begin with a fake pop-up warning, email, text message, online advertisement, or unexpected phone call claiming there is a problem with your device. The scammer may pretend to represent a trusted company and urge you to call a support number or provide remote access to your computer.

Once connected, scammers may:

• Claim they found viruses, malware, or security threats on your device.
• Request remote access to your computer so they can “fix” the problem.
• Demand payment for unnecessary or fake technical support services.
• Ask for personal information, passwords, banking details, or credit card numbers.
• Pressure you to pay using gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, payment apps, or other methods that are difficult to recover.

Top tech support scams to watch for:

• Fake Virus Alerts: Pop-up warnings claim your device is infected and urge you to call a support number. The “technician” is actually a scammer.
• Unexpected Tech Support Calls or Texts: Scammers pose as representatives from well-known technology companies and claim there’s a problem with your device. Legitimate companies won’t contact you out of the blue about computer issues.
• Fake Renewal or Refund Scams: Emails or texts claim you’ve been charged for a software subscription and instruct you to call for a refund. Scammers then try to gain remote access or steal your financial information.
• Government or Financial Institution Impersonation Scams: Scammers claim your accounts are compromised or linked to criminal activity and tell you to move your money to “protect” it. Government agencies and banks will never ask you to do this.

What are the risks?

Falling for a tech support scam can lead to serious consequences, including:

• Financial loss from fraudulent support fees or unauthorized transactions.  Fraudsters have talked unsuspecting victims into moving very large sums of money to “protect it”, they then steal the funds and there is little chance of recovery
• Identity theft if scammers obtain personal or financial information.
• Account compromise if passwords, login credentials, or banking information are shared.
• Device security risks if scammers install malicious software or retain remote access to your computer.
• Emotional stress and lost time dealing with the aftermath of fraud.  This can have a significant impact you along with other members of your family

A special warning about older adults

Tech support scams are a common form of elder fraud. Scammers often target older adults because they may be less familiar with technology, more likely to trust authority figures, or more willing to act quickly when faced with alarming warnings. Fraudsters frequently use fear, urgency, and intimidation tactics to convince victims to send money or provide access to their devices.

If you have aging parents, relatives, or friends, talk with them about these scams and encourage them to verify any technology-related warnings with a trusted family member or legitimate support provider before taking action.

How can you protect yourself?

• Remember that legitimate tech companies will not contact you unexpectedly to report a problem with your computer or device.
• Never call phone numbers displayed in pop-up security warnings. Real security alerts do not instruct you to call a support number.
• Do not grant remote access to your device unless you initiated contact with a trusted support provider.
• Be cautious of pressure and urgency. Scammers often try to create panic to prevent you from thinking clearly.
• Verify suspicious subscription or billing notices by contacting the company directly using a known phone number or website, not the contact information provided in the message.
• Never pay with gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfers, or cash when someone claims to be providing technical support.
• Talk to someone you trust before acting on unexpected messages or requests. A second opinion can help you spot a scam.
• Keep your security software updated and run regular scans to help protect your devices.

TruNorth Bank is here to help!

We’re committed to helping you recognize fraud and protect your personal and financial information. If you ever suspect a scam or notice unusual account activity, contact Customer Care immediately at 855.527.4111. Looking to go a step further to protect yourself and your loved ones? We’ve partnered with Equifax to offer ID Watchdog^®, award-winning identity theft protection. Contact Customer Care or visit an office to learn more and enroll today!

For more fraud prevention tips and resources, visit our Fraud Prevention Center or stop by your local office. Staying informed is one of the best defenses against fraud.