Not another new scheme to be Leary of! Scammers use a novel technique to gain access to computer data in a three-step process. First, they convince a computer user that they have a virus. Then they convince you that they can fix it. Once the user provides the scammer access to their computer to eliminate the virus, they will often steal data. In most cases, they pocket the money that people pay to correct an issue that never existed.
The next new scheme: The ‘You have a virus’ pop-up box
Even though the scheme oftentimes starts with a pop-up box that claims “We’ve detected a virus on your computer” when a user is surfing the web, it may take other forms. The scammers’ goal would be to gain trust.
“We have written blog articles warning about (security tech scams) and also have a warning on our website,” says Tricia Stamper, director of technology products for Florida Realtors Tech Helpline.
Florida acts
This week, Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi announced the filing of three complaints, including one filed jointly with the Federal Trade Commission, against companies allegedly involved in the operation of tech support scams.
“Tech support scams prey on people’s fear of losing important work, family photos or sensitive identification information,” says Bondi. “Using that fear, scammers trick thousands of consumers into paying millions of dollars to fix problems that never existed.”
The recent scheme targeted by the attorney general all involve pop-up ads disguised as computer virus alerts that instruct customers to call a number for help. When a user calls, a sales representative at a call center allegedly confirms the computer is infected and requires services. These scammers exploit consumers’ fears about computer viruses, malware, hackers and other security threats, to ultimately convince them to purchase unnecessary and costly technical support services or software products.
Attorney General Bondi’s Office alleges that the following companies are violating the Florida Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act:
GoReadyCalls Marketing, LLC, A.E.A. Worldwide, LLC, Capital Investments, LLC, Cutting Edge Outlook, LLC, Kradanomic Solutions, LLC, Secure It Digital Solutions, LLC, Software Pros, LLC, Teamkeen, LLC, Us Software Experts, LLC, Us Software Pros, LLC, Wizard Tech Solutions, LLC, Adam Lennox, Evan Keen
Learn More Media, Inc. and Elesha Aflalo
Vylah Tec LLC d/b/a Vtec Support, Express Tech Help LLC, Tech Crew Support LLC, Angelo Cupo, Dennis Cupo and Robert Cupo
Each complaint orders the freezing of assets, seeks instantaneous access to the business premises and the appointment of a receiver. Two of the complaints also seek preliminary and permanent injunctions, full consumer restitution, disgorgement of ill-gotten monies and attorneys’ fees and costs.
Bondi also joined representatives from the Federal Trade Commission in Tampa to announce a significant national and international crackdown on tech support scams.
Any person who suspects unfair or deceptive business practices can file a complaint with the Attorney General’s Office online at MyFloridaLegal.com or (866) 9-NO-SCAM. The federal government also has a list of common scams and accepts complaints at USA.gov.
Aware of any other scams going on? We would love to hear from you. To leave a comment click here .