ALERT: Beware of Phone Phishing Scams

There have been recent phishing incidences occurring over the phone from an overseas firm by people claiming to be technicians. It is important that you know what to listen for so that these “technicians” don’t take advantage of you. Recent victims have been called at home and told that their computers are spreading viruses throughout their neighborhoods. While some people know not to trust these callers, unfortunately, others have believed their claims and allowed these scammers to remote into their computers. These “technicians” have the capability to do major damage on your computer.

Some callers have succeeded in their phishing attempts by claiming to work for Microsoft. Always keep in mind that Microsoft will never call you unless you ask them to do so and intentionally give them your contact information. Other scammers claim that they represent the town or local government and successfully convince the callers to let them remote into their computers.

What should you do if a “technician” calls with a convincing story about a virus?

1.   Don’t get nervous. If you haven’t noticed any problems on your machine and you have regular virus scans, you don’t have to worry.

2.   Don’t believe them. Know who you can trust. If for some reason their claims make you question a potential virus, don’t give them any information no mater what. Call us with the questions you have.

3.   Hang up. Always hang up and make sure everyone in your house knows to do the same. A lot of people can be gullible when it comes to computer scams, especially if they're not tech savvy.

We've been told stories about numerous attacks and we can’t believe how bad computer scams have become and how bold the scammers are. They recently convinced our client's father to pay over $300 with his credit card and then planted a tracking virus on his machine. Because phone attacks like this are becoming increasingly common, everyone should be aware of the potential damage that these callers are capable of if they're given the opportunity. They use scare tactics to take advantage of people, and if victims aren’t aware that their claims are bogus, they are in serious trouble.

Reminder: Even though phone scams are becoming popular, you MUST remember that email scams are STILL being sent out on a regular basis. Never give out personal information via email. If you do, you can expect to be continuously harassed via email, postal mail, and over the phone. To avoid viruses, always think before you click, and note: Bill Gates is NOT giving away money for forwarding emails, and no one is really giving away free Sony laptops or iPads.