🛑 Tech Support Scam: How It Works & How to Stay Safe

🔍 What is a Tech Support Scam?

A Tech Support Scam is a type of cybercrime where fraudsters pose as legitimate technical support representatives—often from reputed companies like Microsoft, Apple, or antivirus providers. Their goal is to trick victims into giving remote access to their devices, thereby enabling them to steal personal data, install malware, or demand payments for fake services.

These scams can occur via phone calls, emails, pop-up warnings, or fake websites and often target less tech-savvy individuals, especially the elderly.

🧠 How Tech Support Scams Operate

1. Initial Contact:

Scammers initiate contact through various channels:

• Phone Calls (Vishing): Cold calls claiming your computer is infected.
• Pop-Up Alerts: Fake virus alerts appearing while browsing the internet.
• Emails: Phishing messages pretending to be from tech companies.
• Ads/Websites: Malicious websites designed to appear legitimate.

2. Fear Tactics:

Once in contact, scammers use fear and urgency:

• “Your system is infected with a virus!”
• “Hackers are stealing your data!”
• “We have detected suspicious activity from your IP address!”

3. Remote Access Request:

They then ask the victim to:

• Install Remote Access Software (like AnyDesk, TeamViewer, or LogMeIn).
• Allow screen sharing, granting full control to the scammer.

4. Exploitation Begins:

After gaining access, they:

• Steal sensitive data (passwords, banking info, documents).
• Install malware, keyloggers, or ransomware.
• Demand payments for fake “repairs” or “protection plans”.
• Make future extortion attempts, using copied data or webcam access.

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🎯 Real-World Example

Mr. Anil received a pop-up on his browser:
“Warning! Your PC is infected. Call Microsoft support immediately at 1800-XXX-XXXX.”

Anil called the number and was guided to install AnyDesk. The scammer faked a virus scan and asked for ₹5,000 to remove the threat. He paid—and later discovered ₹75,000 stolen from his bank via online access during the remote session.

🧪 Investigation Techniques

✅ For Cyber Crime Investigators:

1. IP Address Tracing:
   • Track IP addresses used during the scam communication.
2. Remote Access Tool Logs:
   • Check AnyDesk/TeamViewer logs for session timings and user IDs.
3. Victim Device Forensics:
   • Analyze browser history, download folders, registry entries, and malware.
4. Payment Trail Tracking:
   • Trace UPI, credit card, or wire transfer transactions.
5. Fake Website/Number Reporting:
   • Report numbers and domains to CERT-In, Google Safe Browsing, and TRAI.

🛡️ How to Protect Yourself

🔐 Do’s:

• Use up-to-date antivirus and enable real-time protection.
• Verify any tech support call via the official website.
• Immediately disconnect remote access if unsure.
• Report suspicious pop-ups or emails.

🚫 Don’ts:

• Never click on pop-ups warning about computer viruses.
• Don’t share OTPs, passwords, or allow remote access to unknown persons.
• Avoid installing apps/software suggested by unknown callers.

📞 Where to Report Tech Support Scams in India

• National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal: www.cybercrime.gov.in
• Cyber Helpline Number: 1930
• Local Police Station (Cyber Cell)

📢 Awareness is the Best Defense!

🔊 “Think Before You Click, Verify Before You Trust.”

Tech Support Scams prey on fear and confusion. Educating individuals—especially senior citizens—about these scams can significantly reduce victim count and financial losses.

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