Tech support scams are an industry-wide issue where scammers use scare tactics to trick you into unnecessary technical support services that supposedly fix the contrived device, platform, or software problems.

At best the scammers are trying to get you to pay them to "fix" a non-existent problem with your device or software. At worst they're trying to steal your personal or financial information, and if you allow them to remote into your computer to perform this "fix", they will often install malware, ransomware, or other unwanted programs that can steal your information or damage your data or device.

How IT support scams work

Scammers may call you directly on your phone and pretend to be representatives of CapeStart's IT Support Team. They might even spoof the caller ID so that it displays a legitimate support phone number or profile name on Skype. They can then ask you to install applications that give them remote access to your device. Using remote access, these experienced scammers can misrepresent normal system output as signs of problems.

Scammers might also initiate contact by displaying fake error messages on websites you visit, displaying support numbers, and enticing you to call. They can also put your browser on full screen and display pop-up messages that won't go away, essentially locking your browser. These fake error messages aim to trick you into calling an indicated technical support hotline.

When you engage with the scammers, they can offer fake solutions for your “problems” and ask for payment in the form of a one-time fee or subscription to a purported support service.

So kindly avoid falling for such scams by thoroughly checking the caller's identity and please report us if you find anything fishy or anyone tried impersonating as CapeStart'sIT Support team.