LETTERSFrom Phil Swift, Cowes:
I had quite a few call outs recently over scam phone calls about scam technical support.
I am still having customers losing money to these scammers.
Trading standards are aware but I thought I would let you know some basic symptoms that readers may be keen to know about.
It is basically a remote confidence trick getting people to pay over the odds for work not needed or not executed.
Here is how it can go…
1. A phone call out of the blue unsolicited.
2. They may say there is a virus in your IP (internet protocol)
3. They may say your internet service Provider (ISP) told them you have malware.
4. They use distress purchase words to persuade you something is badly wrong with your computer.
5. They have websites that look 'ropey’ and unprofessional, badly worded websites (notice the word 'softwares’ when it should be 'software’).
6. They ask for full payment in advance before starting work.
7. When asked they say they are in New York or somewhere that has kudos to compound the distress purchase.
8. They say your computer services are not running and have stopped, then show you remotely. Not all computer services are meant to run, this is OK in most cases and they are trying to blind you with tech talk.
9. They may try and hard sell you a support contract for up to five years that may not be fully used. Most legitimate IT support companies have 'pay-as-you-go’ or Pay-Pal or invoice options.
Key things to remember are:
1. Try to put some time aside with relatives and friends, explaining how these scammers work. It’s not just the elderly or computer 'L drivers’ that get hit.
2.Never ever pay for the whole thing up front.
3. There are legitimate remote support companies but they will never ask for all the money up front and will never 'cold call’ you on the telephone to do a job.
4. If you think you have a slow computer with a virus or malware infection, use a reputable local company, preferably recommended by a friend, that is willing to come and see you without a call-out charge or any commitment. They may offer to do the work remotely; this is fine as long as you feel comfortable with remote support and the price that has been quoted.