Scam Spotlight: Consumer Prevents Tech Support Scam

A consumer recently reported to DATCP that they encountered a threatening computer pop-up that said there was an issue with their device which required technical support. The consumer called a phone number listed on the pop-up, not realizing this was a scam attempt which would try to convince them their bank was stealing their money.

The consumer was instructed by the fake tech support specialist to download a program that allowed the scammer to remotely access their entire computer. Next, the scammer said the consumer had money stolen from their account multiple times in recent days – by someone working at their bank! The scammer claimed they needed to work with the FBI to track which bank employee was taking the consumer’s money, and guided the consumer through setting up an online banking account (which the consumer did not previously have). Finally, the scammer tried to seal the deal by telling the consumer to wire $14,500 to another account for a “sting operation” against their own bank.

Thankfully, the consumer didn’t give into the scammer’s high-pressure tactics, false sense of urgency, and insistence that they not tell anyone else about the situation. The consumer contacted their real bank, told them about the scam, and reported the incident to DATCP – saving them from losing $14,500.

Scammers use all sorts of tricks to convince consumers to follow instructions. By claiming this consumer’s bank was actively stealing their money, the scammer hoped to keep the consumer quiet and compliant in order to keep their money safe. Scams often rely on the target being isolated and obedient – so consumers should instead talk to others, ask questions, and remain skeptical when confronted with unsolicited claims and suspicious threats.