Watch Out for Scammers: Tricky Tech Support Fraud Targets Seniors to Send Cash

In an alarming development, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has raised the alarm concerning a surge in tech support scams disproportionately targeting older adults. The fraudsters are tricking seniors into hiding cash in magazines and mailing it to them using shipping companies. 

The best way to avoid this, or any other scam, is by being able to recognize scams and keeping your wits about you. Let's learn more about this, how it works, and what you can do to stay safe.

The Sneaky Scam

How They Get in Touch

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These scammers start by getting in touch in different ways: through calls, texts, emails, or pop-up messages on your computer. They impersonate real company helpers. They might say something's wrong with your computer or promise you money back for a service you paid for.

Making You Believe

After the first message, they don't stop. They'll send more emails or messages. They'll give you a phone number to call for help.  When victims dial this number, they are connected with a scammer who skillfully manipulates them with enticing news of a potential refund. However, the plot thickens.

Sneaking into Your Computer and Bank

The fraudsters will ask you to download a program so they can control your computer from far away. This breach of privacy provides the scammer with an opportunity to guide the victim into logging into their bank account. They'll pretend to send money to your account, but they'll make a "mistake" and put in too much.

The Trick to Taking Your Money

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Now comes the tricky part. They'll tell you they made a mistake and need their extra money back. They'll say you have to send the money in cash. They want you to wrap the money in magazines and send it via a shipping company. But it's all a lie.

Fooling with Magazines and Shipping

Further, the fraudsters will tell you to put the cash inside magazines and mail it to an address they give you. They might say to send it to a pharmacy or a store that gets packages from shipping companies. It all seems real, but it's their trick. In the end, you might be a part of a money mule scam.

Shield Yourself: Crucial Tips

1. Vigilance is Key

Never comply with requests to download software initiated by unknown individuals, even if they seem legitimate. The risk of exposing your computer to unscrupulous hackers is simply too great.

2. Guard Your Computer

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Under no circumstances should an unfamiliar person be granted remote access to your computer. Keep control over your personal data and sensitive information.

3. Dodge Suspicious Links

Avoid clicking on unsolicited pop-ups, email attachments, or links received via text message. Furthermore, refrain from contacting the provided phone numbers unless you can independently verify their authenticity.

4. Cash Transactions: A No-Go

Never, under any circumstances, send cash via mail or shipping companies. This is a blatant red flag that should raise alarms.

Taking Action: Reporting the Scam

In a bid to combat this escalating menace, the FBI urges victims to swiftly report fraudulent or suspicious activities through the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov. A detailed account of the incident is crucial, including the identity of the perpetrator or company, communication methods used, and specifics of the shipped cash, including the recipient's name and address.

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