Several days ago, I had to fix a client’s PC after a supposed call from HP support concerning a Windows error appearing at HP headquarters. As a note, this is the start of a scammer’s cold call. The scammer’s charge was roughly $300 to remove the malware/spyware/viruses that took the shape of faked errors. Unfortunately, the client paid the fee only to receive more errors, no resolution. When I got the client’s call, I immediately said, “You need to get your money back with a stop order.”
For explanation, these scammers are completely legitimate tech support members of Microsoft, HP and Dell. They are third-party contractors located in India and China. The best way to deal with phone calls from these people is by ignoring them or hanging up their calls.
This link is an example of victims calling into a radio show and asking for assistance. Although too late for some, the advice can be followed for the future.
As news of these scams circulates, local TV outlets continue to report similar stories. Take a look here:
How can you avoid these scammers who take advantage of those who don’t know better? If you have time on your hands, take a prolonged approach and keep the scammer on the phone. Most societies operate on the premise that time is money. With this in mind, the more time they waste, the more deterred they might be from scamming other people.
Keep mind no repercussions exist for international scam calls. The only option is to give misleading or fake information. Again, you can also opt to simply hang up, although this choice doesn’t always satisfy those feeling a little feisty.
If you fall victim to one of these scams, immediately call your bank or credit card and ask for a reversal of fees. Do this as soon as possible, hopefully within a few weeks of the transaction, so you get your money back. For further information on how the FTC continues to combat IT fraud, follow this link:
http://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2014/05/stains-of-deceitfulness-inside-the-us-governments-war-on-tech-support-scammers/
