4 Your Money: Be on the lookout for tech support scams

WTTV/WXIN – The Federal Trade Commission is sending out a warning about a stubborn scam that could leave you locked out of your own computer.

According to the FTC, tech support scams often appear as a pop-up alert that says your computer has been infected with a virus or malware.  The message might say it’s from Microsoft, Apple or the Best Buy “Geek Squad.” However, the FTC says you should avoid clicking the link and/or avoid calling the number embedded in the pop-up alert.

“Scammers impersonate well-known companies to get you to trust them and call,” the FTC said.  “If you click on the link or call a phone number in a pop-up warning, they might say your device is infected (which is a lie). Then they’ll try to sell you a ‘solution’ (which is a scam) and ask you to pay for a bogus tech support service.”

Real security alerts will never ask you to call a phone number, the FTC warns. If you are concerned about a security threat, here’s what the FTC recommends:

“To find out whether there’s a problem with your computer, first update your computer’s security software and run a scan. If you need help fixing a problem, go to a company you know and trust. Some stores that sell computer equipment also offer technical support in person. And many companies offer tech support online — but be sure to get in touch with them using contact information listed on their official company website.”

You can share what you know to help others spot and avoid tech support scams. If you see a pop-up scam, tell the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.