This week investigators are seeing more and more scam victims who were scammed out of their money and personal information through alert scams. These scammers use the fear and threat of a so-called fraud to scare victims into falling for actual fraud.
Scams This Week 2/28/22
February 28, 2022
Fraud Alert Scams: The first and most common version of this scam is when you receive a text that indicates that you’re either a victim of fraud or asks if you just made a purchase or charge. The key thing to remember is that banks do send these text messages out. The phone number attached to the alert is fraudulent and will take you to the fraudster, so instead, make sure you look up your bank’s number and give them a call. If the alert mentions a bank that you don’t use, still look them up and give them a call. Fraud is so common so you want to make sure they know you do not have an account with them.
Pop-up Tech Support Scams: Like the fraud alert you get a pop-up on your computer, a text, or a phone call from a specialist telling you your computer has been compromised by a virus. If you answer the phone or call the number provided, just like with the fraud alert you will be connected with a scammer. The scammer will pose as a specialist with the company that is going to help you protect your information and money, and all they need is access to your computer.
Remote Access Scams: Fraud Alert scams and Pop Up Tech Support scams end up leading to Remote Access scams. The scammer uses the fraud alert or the virus pop-up to gain access to your phone or computer. They will walk you through how to add an app, (examples: LogMeIn, TeamViewer, or GoToAssist) that provides them access to “remove the virus.” They will also ask for payment. Through this scam, you not only provide your Financial Transaction or Bank Account information but also access to your computer or phone and everything on them. That could include online banking information, a crypto wallet, and any personal identifying information.
Never allow access to your computer or phone. If you think you have a compromised device take it to a reputable company. There are many you can do business with face to face. Remember that no one is monitoring your devices so there’s no way they could know if you have a virus. The scammers are the real virus.
Find more scam prevention tips on our website.
Contact: Boise Police Media Relations