Business Solutions for Winter 2021

6 WINTER 2021 They start with a pop-up ad or call saying there’s a problem with your computer Non-Existent Problems and Fake Solutions Some tech support scams use pop-up ads claiming to sell fixes for your computer and leading 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 it has problems requiring additional “solutions.” They then ask for a credit card number to purchase these so-called solutions that do nothing, or worse yet, install malware. Tech support scams can also come in the form of an unexpected phone call. Scammers call and claim they’re on the tech support team at Microsoft or another well-known technology company. They go through the same process of asking you to give them remote access to your computer—which could enable them to get to all the information stored on it and on any network connected to it. They may try to enroll you in a worthless computer maintenance or warranty program. How to Protect Your Business If a caller says your computer has a problem, hang up. A tech sup- port call that comes out of the blue is a scam—even if the number is local or looks legitimate. These scammers use fake caller ID information to look like local businesses or trusted companies. Also ignore a pop-up message telling you to call a tech support number. While some pop-up messages about computer issues are legitimate, they would not ask you to place a call. Should you be worried about a virus or other computer threat, call your security software company directly using the phone number on its website or the product packaging. You could also consult a trusted computer security professional. Never give remote access to your computer to someone who con- tacts you unless you initiated the conversation. The same goes for credit card information and passwords. Perhaps most importantly, back up all your files regularly using a reliable offsite backup and recovery service. If you fear you may already have been a victim of a tech support scam, check your computer for malware, change passwords you may have given out, and reverse any associated credit card charges. If the affected computer is connected to your network, the entire network should be checked for intrusions. Panora Telco and Guthrie Center Communications offer IT services to help your business with computer security. Call (641) 755-2600 to learn more. Look Out for Tech Support Scams Make sure everyone at your business knows how to recognize tech support scams to avoid the damage they can cause.