Two years ago, an elderly client of ours clicked on a link that purported to update the security software on her computer. Within minutes a scammer had called her and pressured her to transfer money from an online savings account to one of her own transaction accounts.
Over the next hour the scammer bombarded her with high pressure language and demands to act quickly to save her money. They had her drive to the local branch all whilst they remained on the phone demanding her to hurry. They demanded she withdraw $9,000 in cash and then return home where a courier was waiting to collect a package. The courier was unrelated to the crime and had responded to an online order to collect the package and deliver to another location.
Police had nothing to work with and the advice was to get a new computer, such was the speed and sleekness of the scam.
Tech support scams are one of the fastest-growing threats we see – someone rings claiming to be from Telstra, Microsoft, or NBN saying your computer has a virus and they need remote access “right now.”
Here are some ways you can be safer.
1. Legitimate companies almost never cold-call about computer problems
Telstra, Microsoft, and Apple do NOT ring unsolicited to tell you your computer is infected.
If you get such a call, hang up immediately.
We’ve had clients who let the caller remote in—within minutes malware is installed, banking details stolen, and sometimes ransomware locks everything.
2. Never grant remote access to an unsolicited caller
Even if they sound convincing and show you “proof” of errors, it’s fake.
Once they’re in, they can install keyloggers that record every password you type.
We had one client who caught it halfway and yanked the power cord. That’s the only thing that saved them.
The safest response is purely to say, “I’ll call you back on an official number” and then don’t.
3. Keep software updated and use proper antivirus
Enable automatic updates on your computer and phone, most patches fix security holes that scammers commonly exploit.
We also recommend installing reputable antivirus with real-time protection and regular scans.
Another great security option is to set your internet banking apps to require device approval for large transfers. This then adds an extra barrier even if someone gets temporary access.
Tech support scams rely on urgency and fear.
Slow down, hang up, and verify.
Assume the worst of every caller and rely on the defence that you will call them back on an official number.
It’s much better to do a quick check than get a total clean-out.
