Old scam, new tricks: Fraudsters pretend to be Microsoft employees on the phone. Alleged support calls are on the rise again and are finding more and more victims - especially in the SME sector.
At the moment, supposed employees of Microsoft's technical support are increasingly calling unsuspecting Internet users. They are informed that their computer has been infected with a virus or that there is a serious technical problem. The alleged support employee wants to help, but in truth wants to steal access data or steal money. In his current article on WeLiveSecurity.de, ESET security expert Thomas Uhlemann explains how those affected should react immediately.
Tech Support Scam back up to date
“The corona pandemic has led to a significant increase in the so-called tech support scam. Many employees pursue their jobs within their own four walls. The criminals can not only attack individual private users, but under certain circumstances even entire companies, ”explains Thomas Uhlemann, ESET Security Specialist. “Microsoft, Apple or similar companies do not make unsolicited phone calls to repair an allegedly defective device or to remove a virus. If the callers claim this, those affected should hang up immediately. "
Data comes from hacker attacks
The fraudsters usually get the phone numbers from data records that come from hacker attacks. These are available on the Darknet for little money. Hundreds of thousands of such calls are made annually. The deeds do not exactly shine through technical finesse. When making phone calls, the fraudsters use psychological tricks to create a trusting atmosphere. Then they mercilessly exploit human weaknesses such as good faith. If the caller has doubts, they are put through to supposed superiors or experts. These criminal groups are extremely professional.
Tips to Protect Against Tech Support Scam
- If you get a call from a supposed Microsoft support representative, hang up immediately. Ignore supposed warning notices that appear on the browser screen or in e-mails. Under no circumstances should you open any attachments in these messages.
- Do not give out any personal information to the callers.
- Do not install any third-party software on your computer, smartphone or tablet when making a call like this.
- If you have fallen for a supposed support employee and let him work on the PC, disconnect your computer from the Internet. Have the device checked by an expert and then change all passwords, especially those for e-mails, online banking and in online shops.
- Report the fraud to the police.
The article on the new wave of Tech Support Scam is also available online to read.
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