Scammers often use new technology to target people who do any form of business online. In 2018, 1.4 million instances of fraud were reported in the U.S., so it’s essential to familiarize yourself with what to do when you encounter one. Two of the most common schemes are scam phone calls and pop-up scams while browsing the internet. Here is a breakdown of the do’s and don’ts when dealing with a potential scam, including when to turn to computer repair and IT support professionals.

Do:

Hang up on scam calls.

Many scam artists skim online databases to find out just enough information about you to make themselves sound like a professional at a company where you have an account. 

If you get a phone call proclaiming to be from Google, Microsoft, or any tech company asking for information about your accounts, it’s likely a scam. These companies very rarely reach customers via phone, if ever. Don’t say a word and hang up immediately. Some scammers have been known to record people’s voices in an attempt to obtain a successful voice signature for fraud purposes.

Shut down your computer if you click on a suspicious pop-up.

Some pop-up ads contain spyware, malware, or viruses. Thankfully, most of these backdoor downloaders take a few minutes to work, which means you can stop them if you're fast enough. If you click on any pop-up that produces any strange response, shut down your computer immediately. 

While performing a hard shutdown (turning off your computer by holding down the power button) is not something you should do often, this is one instance where it may be necessary.

Don’t:

Give out personal information.

Never give your personal information to a website pop-up or over the phone unless you have 100% confidence in what you are doing and with whom you are communicating. Scammers can take even seemingly benign information and use it for identity theft. 

Take chances with potential security breaches.

If you have any doubts about your computer’s security, don’t wait. As soon as possible, take it to a computer repair store and explain your cause for concern. The technicians there can check it for malware and viruses, and likely repair any damage that might have been done. 

If you suspect your computer is at risk or if you want to take extra precautions, contact the computer repair experts at ComputerWerks Inc. These computer service professionals are experienced with IT support and repair and have earned a Microsoft Certification for their quality service. Call them today at (907) 451-4888 or visit their website for more information.