Hang up on Tech Support Scams!

Scammers have gotten good at convincing unsuspecting victims that they have a computer virus. Their end game is to take your money or gain access to your personal financial information.

• You get a call or see a pop-up message on your computer warning that you have a virus (the caller will claim to be from Microsoft or Apple or another well-known tech company).
• They convince you to give them remote access to your computer so they can fix the “problem,” but they actually install malware that steals sensitive data like user names and passwords.
• Or, they get you to fork over credit card information and charge you for phony services, or services you could get for free.

• Criminals have figured out how to spoof caller ID numbers so they appear to be calling from a legitimate company, so don’t rely on caller ID.
• Even tech savvy consumers get caught up in this scam, so don’t assume you are immune.

• Hang up on anyone claiming to be from tech support.
• If you get a pop-up alert that appears to freeze your computer, don’t follow the instructions. Just shut down your computer and restart to get rid of the phony ad.
• Look inside the tech support scam from the perspective of a former scammer at www.aarp.org/techscams.

Anytime you suspect fraud, you should alert the SD Division of Consumer Protections by visiting  www.consumer.sd.gov or calling 1-800-300-1986. They can investigate the issue and warn other South Dakotans to stay vigilant.

When it comes to fraud, vigilance is our number one weapon. You can join the Fraud Watch Network and receive alerts about scams like this happening in South Dakota. Any one of any age can join for free by visiting  aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork or to receive Fraud Watch Network alerts by phone, call 1-866-542-8172.