: Identifying & Preventing Tech Support Scams - Sunwest Bank
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Tech Support Scams

Tech Support Scams

Tech Support Scams

Protect Your Business:
A Comprehensive Guide to Tech Support Scams

Cybersecurity threats are an ever-present concern for businesses of all sizes as technology continues to advance and evolve. While you might be aware of the risks of viruses and malware, tech scams represent a more insidious threat that preys on trust, confusion, and urgency. Sunwest Bank is committed to equipping you with the knowledge to protect your business and employees from these scams. With our expertise in cybersecurity and proactive solutions, we ensure you stay one step ahead of scammers.

How Tech Support Scams Work

Tech support scams are constantly evolving to exploit users’ fears about security and computer maintenance. Fraudsters often pose as legitimate technicians from well-known companies such as Microsoft or Apple. The scam typically begins with a phone call, an unsolicited pop-up warning on your computer, or even a fake advertisement offering “free security scans.” The goal? To convince you that your computer is infected with a virus or that a severe issue requires immediate attention. It is essentially a remote form of social engineering impersonation fraud.

Fake Diagnoses and Remote Access

One of the most common tactics scammers use is diagnosing fake problems on your computer. They may claim that routine files or harmless system processes are dangerous viruses, all while using technical jargon to confuse and alarm you. Once they’ve earned your trust, they request remote access to your computer. By granting them this access, you unknowingly open the door to your sensitive data, including passwords, financial information, and company files.

Sunwest Bank advises against allowing any unsolicited third-party access to your systems. Maintaining control over your technology and ensuring your cybersecurity protocols only permit access from verified and trusted sources is crucial to protecting your information.

The True Cost of Tech Support Scams

What are the scammers after? In most cases, their primary goal is financial gain. Once they’ve convinced you that your computer is in jeopardy, they may pressure you into purchasing unnecessary software or tech support services, charging exorbitant fees for “fixing” non-existent problems. Worse, they might install malware on your system designed to steal sensitive data or extort money through ransomware.

In business environments, the consequences of these scams can be even more dire. Tech support scammers could gain access to your company’s financial accounts, sensitive client information, or critical business data. For businesses in finance, healthcare, or law industries, a data breach of this nature could lead to regulatory penalties, reputational damage, and lost revenue.

Who Is Targeted by Tech Support Scams?

Tech support scammers are equal-opportunity offenders, but specific demographics and business types are more likely to be targeted. Small to medium-sized businesses, where internal IT resources may be limited, are often prime targets. Tech support scammers rely on the likelihood that employees may not have the technical expertise to spot a scam and may fall victim to the pressure tactics used. This is why having a business plan to educate employees about cyber threats, how to prevent them, and what to do when attacks occur is extremely important.

In addition, individuals who work remotely or businesses with bring-your-own-device (BYOD) policies are at higher risk. Remote workers may be more susceptible to unsolicited phone calls or pop-up messages, especially if they lack immediate access to direct tech support.

How to Avoid Tech Support Scams

Avoiding scams requires vigilance, critical thinking, and a solid understanding of how tech support scammers operate. Sunwest Bank encourages all business owners to implement the following strategies:

1. Don’t Trust Unsolicited Contact

If someone calls you out of the blue claiming to be from tech support, hang up. Legitimate companies will not contact you unexpectedly to inform you of a computer issue. Instead, contact your trusted IT provider using a known, legitimate phone number.

2. Verify Technical Support Sources

Even if you encounter a pop-up window or email warning of a security issue, don’t act on it immediately. Tech support scammers often use fake error messages that look like legitimate warnings from trusted companies. Instead, navigate directly to the company’s official website or use contact information from official sources to verify whether there is a real issue with your system.

3. Never Share Sensitive Information

No legitimate tech support representative will ask for your personal information, passwords, or credit card details. If you’re ever pressured to provide such information over the phone or online, it’s a clear sign that you’re dealing with a scammer.

4. Be Cautious with Remote Access Requests

Never allow a third party to take control of your computer unless you have initiated the request for tech support with a known and trusted company. Remote access can be a powerful tool for scammers, giving them full control of your system and enabling them to steal data or install malicious software.

What to Do if You’re TargetedWhat to Do if You’re Targeted

Despite your best efforts, you or someone in your business may fall victim to a tech support scam. If this happens, acting quickly is essential to minimize the damage.

1. Disconnect from the Internet

If you’ve granted a scammer remote access to your computer, immediately disconnect your computer from the internet to prevent further tampering. This will cut off the scammer’s access and stop any additional damage from being done.

2. Remove Malware and Update Software

Scan your system using legitimate antivirus software and remove any detected threats. Updating your security software to ensure any vulnerabilities are patched is also a good idea. Sunwest Bank offers resources to help businesses stay updated on the latest cybersecurity practices so you can do this step on your own if, and when, necessary.

3. Change Compromised Passwords

If you’ve shared any passwords with the scammer, change them immediately. It’s essential to update the affected accounts and any other accounts where you may have reused the same password. We recommend using a password manager to create unique passwords for each account.

4. Monitor Financial Accounts

If you’ve shared credit card or financial information with the scammer, contact your bank or credit card provider to report the incident. They can help you freeze or cancel your accounts. Most digital banking apps allow you to do this as well.

Reporting Tech Support Scams

Reporting tech support scams is crucial to help authorities track down scammers and prevent future incidents. If you believe a tech support scam has targeted you, you should report it to:

  • The Federal Trade Commission (FTC): File a complaint at gov/complaint.
  • Your IT Department or Provider: Ensure your internal team is aware of the incident and take steps to protect your network from future attacks.
  • Sunwest Bank’s Fraud Prevention Team: We’re here to help. Contact us immediately for support if your business banking information has been compromised.

The Role of Sunwest Bank in Cybersecurity

At Sunwest Bank, we recognize that businesses face growing cybersecurity threats. We’re not just a bank—we’re your partner in safeguarding your financial assets and protecting your company’s reputation. Our cybersecurity tools and business banking services suite are designed to keep you informed and protected from emerging threats like tech support scams.

Sunwest’s Commitment to Your Security

Through proactive education, advanced fraud detection, and tailored cybersecurity solutions, Sunwest Bank goes above and beyond to ensure your business is prepared to tackle cyber threats. Our team of experts is available to provide personalized guidance, helping you establish robust defenses and stay vigilant against scams.

In a world where cybercrime constantly evolves, a trusted financial partner is critical. Sunwest Bank is committed to protecting your business with the latest cybersecurity best practices, ensuring you can focus on what you do best — running your business.

Protect Yourself and Your Business Today

Tech support scams may be sophisticated, but with the right knowledge and tools, you can safeguard your business from their costly effects. By working with Sunwest Bank, you can access expert support, fraud prevention strategies, and the resources needed to stay secure in today’s digital landscape. Protect your business and stay ahead with Sunwest Bank’s trusted cybersecurity solutions.