Tips on avoiding tech support scams

How can you avoid a tech support scam?

“If you think there’s a problem with your computer, take it to a friend or take it to a computer repair shop,” said Kevin Haley, director of product management for security response at Symantec. “It’s sort of like with your car. You have to find a mechanic you can trust.”

Other tips for online safety: • If you receive an unsolicited phone call or email about your computer, it is most likely a scam.

• If you receive an unsolicited pop-up message on your computer, examine it closely for signs that it may be fake. These include misspellings and bad grammar, or poorquality graphics and images.

• Examine emails in the same way, because scammers may be trying to trick you into clicking on a link or opening a file.

• Microsoft says its error messages and warnings never include a phone number. Symantec, which makes Norton antivirus software, says it will call you only if you request a call.

• Search online for the number you are asked to call. If other people have reported that number, it might come up as a suspected scam.

• Search online for the ad- dress where you are asked to send a payment. If it is a house, you might want to think twice.

• If you are tricked into giving someone remote access to your computer, change the passwords on your bank account and other accounts.

• If you are scammed, contact your bank and the FTC, where you can file an online complaint. The Better Business Bureau also has a scam tracker.