BBB on Seniors: Be aware of online, over-the-phone tech support scams

In this scam, hackers are looking to gain access to your computer to steal sensitive information, or simply acquire personal financial information, such as your credit card number.

If they are able to gain your trust, they might convince you to give them remote access to your computer and change your setting, which could leave your computer vulnerable to viruses or hackers.

In this scenario, the Internet user unknowingly clicks on a link that produces a pop-up window warning them their computer has been hacked, and they should contact tech support immediately.

If you do suspect you have been hacked, have a virus on your computer, or need any kind of assistance from tech support call a trusted company and look for their phone number on their website, software packaging, or on a receipt of a product you have purchased directly from them.

Never provide your credit card or financial information to someone who calls claiming to be from tech support.

Update or download legitimate security software, and scan your computer for viruses regularly.

If you have paid for phony services for virus protection with a credit card, call your credit card company and ask to have the charges reversed.