How to Know You’re the Target of Fake Tech Support

IT support is one of those necessary parts of running a business, whether it’s to handle the small issues or the larger problems. The worst of us, however, take advantage of people’s need for IT support and leverage it in targeted attacks to exploit others. We’re talking, of course, about cybercriminals, and if you’re not careful, you might find yourself the target of a fake IT support attack.

These tips should be helpful, even if you don’t have an internal IT staff (and if you don’t, you can call Suffolk Computer Consultants to learn about how you can finally get the IT support you deserve).

Remember, Big Tech Companies Won’t Call You

If you’ve ever received a phone call from someone claiming to work for Microsoft, Apple, Google, or another large tech company, understand that it’s probably not the company calling you, but a scammer. These scammers might ask you about your computer’s status, but it’s safe to hang up, as these companies are never going to reach out to you unsolicited. This is because they can’t possibly know what’s going on with every single device they sell to consumers and businesses. Even governing bodies have agreed that no tech company can call you unsolicited.

If you ever receive these messages or calls, it’s safe to assume it’s a scam. If you think there’s a problem with your technology, you can of course reach out to Suffolk Computer Consultants instead and we’ll determine if there is an issue that needs resolution.

Don’t Give IT Your Sensitive Information

If your tech support asks for sensitive information, like credit card details or login credentials, know that you’re probably dealing with a scammer. Your trusted IT resource doesn’t need your permission to access your computer; they can simply remote in without needing your credentials. The same goes for credit card information; your business has already struck a deal with its IT provider, which means they are billed according to that agreement. Your employees should never have to hand over this information.

Both these threats take advantage of a lack of knowledge and organizational information, which means they can be resolved in the same way: properly educating your team on how to address these situations, as well as how your business receives its IT support.

Ensure Everyone Knows How to Request IT Support

All of the tech support scams depend on one simple fact: your people don’t know how IT support actually works. You can eliminate the threat it poses by instructing your team on the specific details of how they can get in touch with tech support for their issues. Give your employees access to your support’s contact information or ticketing instructions so they can get the support they need when they need it. This way, your team can cross-reference this information as needed.

Suffolk Computer Consultants can help your business take the fight to tech support misinformation and scams. Learn more by calling us at 631-905-9617.