FALL 2025 5 REACH TECH SUPPORT SCAMMERS WANT MONEY OR COMPUTER ACCESS When you communicate with tech support, you want them to help you solve computer problems, not create them! Yet, that's exactly what scammers pretending to be tech support personnel are doing. Here's how it typically works: Pop-up ads claiming to sell fixes for your computer lead you to a website to download the software. The website includes a phone number for you to call to "register" the software. When you call, the person on the other end of the line requests information, such as passwords or remote access to your computer. Using remote access, they "examine" your computer and tell you that it has problems that need additional "solutions." They then ask for your credit card number to purchase these so-called solutions that don't actually do anything. While they're at it, they may infect your computer with malware or use your financial information to commit credit card fraud. To help protect against scams, follow these tips: • Never give access to your computer to someone who calls you out of the blue. • To contact tech support, call the number you already have for your hardware or software. • Never provide credit card information, passwords, or other sensitive data to someone claiming to be a tech support representative. • Use an anti-virus and anti-malware application, and run it regularly to ensure continuous protection. • Perhaps most importantly, back up all your files regularly. Use a reliable offsite backup and recovery service. Think you may already have been a victim of a scam? Check your computer for malware, change passwords you may have given out, and reverse any associated credit card charges. HOW TO PROTECT YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION You need to take a multi-prong approach to guarding your personal information. Here are key strategies: • Carry only necessary identification. Do not carry your Social Security card with you. • Take steps to reduce the amount of mail you receive that displays personal information. • Be cautious when providing your Social Security number. It’s okay to ask whether it is needed for the application or transaction. • Check your credit report annually using annualcreditreport.com. • Never provide personal information over the phone or internet unless you have initiated the contact and have confirmed the business or person’s identity. • Avoid leaving any personal information in your car. • Shred unnecessary documents, especially those containing your personal information. • Take your outgoing mail to the post office or postal box rather than using street-side mailboxes. One way to cut down on the amount of mail you receive that contains personal information is to pay your bills online. To use Consolidated’s Pay Now, visit ctctel.smarthub.coop/PayNow.
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