GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ) – Tech support scams have been around for a long time, and a new one targeting Windows 7 users is popping up, as Microsoft has ended its support for the aging operating system.
“They’ll claim your license is about to expire, so let me help you update or upgrade your system or renew your license. It’s just a new wrinkle on an old scam,” Bach says, “Oftentimes they’ll tell you they’re removing a virus, when if fact they could be downloading more malware to your computer.”
So how does someone identify a scammer when it comes to Windows 7 tech support? Right now, it’s pretty simple.
“If they call saying they’re from Microsoft, you know immediately it’s a scam. Because Microsoft does not call consumers. They wait for people to come to them with tech support issues,” says Susan Bach of the Better Business Bureau.
If a caller claims to be tech support from Microsoft, just hang up.
Some people may be wondering how to either find support for their Windows 7 operating system or have a computer updated. That’s generally a quick fix for someone who actually knows what they’re doing.
“Go to a reputable computer dealer or contact Microsoft directly on your own,” Bach advises, “This is not the kind of problem you want some stranger calling you to fix. This is the kind of problem where you would want to take your computer in to a reputable dealer and have them upgrade your software or operating system.”
Microsoft won’t reimburse scam victims for money or gift cards given to scammers, but they are happy to check over your computer to make sure any viruses or malware have been removed.
Other red flags of a scam might include:
A caller requesting fees to help fix your computer or install software – then requesting remote acess to your computer. Allowing access can compromise secure personal information, such as banking details and login credentials.
If someone calls you claiming you have a problem you had no idea existed, don’t take their word for it. Hang up and do some research before you accept any help. In the BBB Scam Tracker reports, victims report that they were already using Windows 10 when they got a call claiming they needed to upgrade.
