When it comes to providing remote access to a computer or phone, the best play is to err on the side of caution. The FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office are reporting an increase in technical support scams in Alaska, and anticipate a further increase in the months leading up to the holiday season.
Even if that new mobile phone or smartwatch feels like it could be a lot easier to use, the FBI advises to always solicit help before allowing anyone access to a device. This is known as technical support fraud, and it can disproportionately victimize Alaska’s senior population. This brand of fraud involves a criminal claiming to provide customer, security, or technical support, all with the aim of defrauding a victim.
Typical tech fraudsters target victims through pop-up warnings on their devices or unsolicited phone calls that could appear to be from the same area code as the victim. They often impersonate employees of popular technology companies to mislead victims. They will then offer to resolve the issue by suggesting the victim install remote access programs. Then, using high-pressure tactics, they persuade the victim to pay for the technical support services via prepaid cards, such as gift cards, or via money transfer applications or services.
Any genuine support will be solicited, and they will not pressure their customers to act quickly by buying gift cards or installing unknown software. If you need help with a fancy new piece of technology, ask for it from the original manufacturer and follow their advice. When in doubt when chatting with an unknown technical support agent, hang up and contact the aforementioned manufacturer.
According to a joint release by the FBI and U.S. Attorney’s office, if anyone believes they are a victim of fraud, regardless of financial loss, report the incident to the FBI Anchorage Field Office at (907) 276-4441, online at tips.fbi.gov, or through the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov.
