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FBI PSA - Scammers Using Computer-Technical Support Impersonation Scams to Target Victims and Conduct Wire Transfers

FBI PSA - Scammers Using Computer-Technical Support Impersonation Scams to Target Victims and Conduct Wire Transfers

Created: Tuesday, November 15, 2022 - 11:42
Categories:
Cybersecurity, Security Preparedness

The FBI has published a Public Service Announcement (PSA) advising the public on how to protect themselves from cyber criminals conducting computer-technical support scams. Technical support scams involve fraudsters posing as service representatives of a company's technical or computer repair service and contacting victims through email or by telephone about a highly priced, soon-to-renew subscription. According to the PSA, “Scammers request victims contact the scammers at a provided telephone number or email to cancel the renewal and receive a varying refund amount. After the victims contact the scammers, they attempt to obtain personal and banking information that is then used to conduct unauthorized wire transfers of funds held within the targeted victim's accounts.” Scammers often send elaborate messages to potential targets from email domains that seem authentic and claim to provide a form of technical service, such as what would be offered through major electronic store chains. Fraudsters have also been observed running a short script file to collect victim information and provide legitimacy. For recommendations on protecting your organization, yourself, and your family and friends from this type of fraud activity, access the full PSA (and consider forwarding it to everyone you know). To report an incident or file a complaint, visit the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint CenterRead the full PSA here.