Don't be the next target with tips on how to protect yourself.
Tech support scams are on the rise, and scammers are increasingly targeting employees in the US. These criminals, here and abroad, can trick even tech-savvy individuals, leading to data breaches, financial losses, and damage to company systems.
How Do Tech Support Scams Work?
Phishing Panic: Scammers pose as IT personnel, software companies, or security experts. They create a sense of urgency with fake alerts about viruses, hacked accounts, or compromised data.
Remote Access Trap: Scammers try to convince you to grant them remote access to your computer. Once they're in, they steal data, install malware, or hold your system for ransom.
The Payment Scheme: They may demand payment for fake repairs, bogus software, or to avoid "legal consequences" of their fabricated security issue.
Why Are Employees Vulnerable?
Workplace Authority:Â Scammers often impersonate IT or company higher-ups to exploit trust and the desire to follow instructions quickly.
Stress and Overload:Â Busy employees may be more likely to overlook red flags when they're feeling overwhelmed with work.
Fear of Consequences: Threats of data loss, system shutdown, or job action increase the pressure to act without thinking.
How to Protect Yourself and Your Company
Verify, Don't React: Before taking any action, contact your IT department directly using a known number or email.
Never Give Remote Access: Legitimate IT will rarely need this without pre-planning. If unsure, always refuse.
Question Everything: Be skeptical of unusual requests, urgent warnings, or pressure to pay for unexpected services.
Report Suspicious Activity: Inform your IT team of any suspicious calls, emails, or pop-ups immediately.
Training is Key:Â Companies should provide regular security awareness training to empower employees to identify and report scams.
Remember: Scammers Prey on Panic
Staying calm and a little suspicious are your best defenses. Don't get tricked into handing criminals the keys to your data or the company network. A few extra minutes of verification can save a lot of trouble.
Salt City Tech can protect your company and employees.
Additional Resources:
Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Scam Alerts: https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/
Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA): https://www.cisa.gov/
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