Recent deceptive ads on Facebook have lured users into tech support scams, falsely claiming their computers are locked and urging them to call a purported Windows Support number. These longstanding scams exploit fear, targeting those less familiar with technology. Scammers often impersonate reputable companies and may convince victims to install harmful software. To protect against such scams, users should avoid unsolicited requests for information, refrain from calling unknown numbers, and consult professionals if compromised.
In recent weeks, many users navigating their Facebook homepage on desktop might have encountered a deceptive ad suggesting they had new messages waiting. This seemingly innocuous click could lead unsuspecting individuals into a precarious situation.
Upon clicking the ad, which was disguised to look legitimate, users were bombarded with alarming warnings indicating that their computers had been locked. They were then instructed to refrain from turning off their devices and to urgently call a phone number displayed on the screen, claiming to be Windows Support.
This alarming trend was highlighted by a Reddit user who experienced the scam firsthand, and it has also been discussed on security blogs by experts like engineer Günter Born.
Understanding the Tech Support Scam: A Long-Standing Deception
It’s evident that anyone who responds to these unsolicited calls is likely falling prey to a longstanding scam. Consumer protection organizations and law enforcement have long been alerting the public about fraudsters masquerading as tech support in order to extract money from anxious users. According to Tatjana Halm from the Bavarian Consumer Center, this scheme remains pervasive, often targeting those who are less familiar with technology.
The tactics employed by these criminals are quite similar. They may initiate contact by calling users directly, attempting to intimidate them with claims of expired licenses or malware infections. Fraudsters may also reach out via email or through aggressive pop-up messages in web browsers. The ultimate goal is to unsettle the victim enough to make them reach out to the scammers, using the ‘support numbers’ they provide.
Consumers are also receiving unsettling emails, which should be treated with caution. It’s crucial to know what actions to avoid in these situations.
Major Brands: Targets for Fraudulent Activities
Once scammers establish contact, they often convince victims to install software, which could either be a legitimate remote access tool or harmful malware. Their primary motive is financial gain; they may either lock the victim’s computer and demand a ransom or siphon off sensitive information through remote access. This alarming trend has been documented by the Consumer Center.
Fraudsters frequently exploit the names of reputable companies like Apple or Microsoft to lend credibility to their scams. Cliff Steinhauer, the director of information security and engagement at the National Cybersecurity Alliance, noted that a warning purportedly from Microsoft about a computer virus appears more convincing than a message from an obscure source.
Protect Yourself: Strategies Against Tech Support Scams
According to Microsoft, this issue is widespread across the industry, and they offer several guidelines to help users protect themselves. They emphasize that support will only be provided upon request, and that legitimate error messages will never include phone numbers.
Moreover, Microsoft will never request payment for support in cryptocurrency or gift cards. Users should be cautious if they receive unsolicited requests for sensitive information or software installation from unknown individuals.
Consumer advocate Halm advises keeping a cool head in such situations. Users should avoid calling any displayed numbers, refrain from engaging in conversation, and never grant access to their computers.
If someone falls victim to a tech support scam and installs suspicious software, it’s crucial to disconnect the affected device from the internet, power it down, and change all important passwords using a different device that is not compromised. Consulting with a professional to inspect the affected PC is also highly recommended.
Be mindful of other scams as well, such as the alarming PayPal schemes, which can lead to significant financial losses. Unfortunately, these deceptions can be difficult to guard against.