Computer Scam Many seniors are very good with computers and enjoy having
access to the internet to stay in touch with friends and family.
Unfortunately, many scam artists attempt to prey on
unsuspecting seniors who are not as familiar with computers
and are easily tricked into revealing personal financial
information over the phone or through email.
Phone/ E-Mail Pitch: You receive a phone call that the
“Technical Department” needs to install new software on your
computer. They ask you a series of questions and instruct you
to turn on your computer so they can remote into it to install
the program. The person on the phone says that you will then
need to purchase new security software for $400 and asks for
your credit card number.
Target: Anyone with a computer and access to the internet,
but especially seniors.
Result: You have compromised your credit card information
and have paid for computer software which most likely is not
legitimate. The scam artist may have also installed “spyware”
which can harm your computer.
How to avoid this scam: Your internet provider or computer
manufacturer should never call you and ask to reveal personal
financial information over the phone or by email. If you receive such a call or email, ask the person for a full name and
phone number and then look up your internet provider’s number and call them directly. Never give out personal financial
information by email or over the phone unless you initiated the
phone call and you are certain of the person with whom you
are speaking with.