Online tech support scams are still a major problem, according to recent Microsoft research, and, surprisingly, Generation Z and Millennial users are the most likely to fall victim to these schemes. Despite this trend, consumers overall are less susceptible to these scams and are losing less money to them than they have in the past, the release said.
20% of consumers are engaging with a tech support scammer and some of those losing money. Microsoft receives about 11,000 complaints a month from victims of tech support scams, the release noted.
Scam victims will often detail someone calling them to explain something is wrong with their computer or a robocall threatening to cut off service or warning a user they've been hacked. Out of fear, some engage with the scam and offer up personal data or money to fix their nonexistent problem.
If you fear that your employees may fall victim to one of these scams, Microsoft recommends offering the following five pieces of advice
1. Don't engage with any unsolicited pop-up—don't click on it or call any number listed.
2. Keep in mind that most tech companies, Microsoft included, will not ever proactively reach out to offer technical support.
3. Only give computer access to a third-party if you know the person is a legitimate support agent or representative from an actual company where you are a customer.
4. If you are concerned about the legitimacy of a call concerning a tech product, hang up the phone and contact that company directly.
5. If you believe you may have fallen victim to a support scam, report it to the company whose product it involves and file a report with police and the consumer protection authority.
For more information about training or general support, contact Bradley Sanchez today at bsanchez@sharevista.com.