Whether or not you’re subscribed to antivirus software, you might get a message about it. An email or letter in the mail will say that your subscription has been renewed and you will be charged several hundred dollars. Subscription scams are all the rage, and bogus antivirus billing renewals could fool you out of hundreds.
Sometimes scammers pretend to represent Microsoft, Google, or other trusted technology companies. They think that you will call their fake customer support number if they hide behind official logos. Tap or click here to learn about the most common companies that scammers impersonate.
Government officials say there has been an increase in antivirus scam letters. You will get these scams through postal mail or email. If you fall for their tricks, you’re toast.
What to do when you receive bogus antivirus billing renewals
In May, the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) reported an increase in complaints. Consumers said they were receiving fake letters from Norton 360 Deluxe software. Most received them by email, while others received physical documents.
This scam is still going strong. Kim recently came face to face with this scam. Fortunately, she recognized the warning signs and deleted the email as soon as possible.
If you’re like Kim, you probably get a lot of spam. Tap or click here to see nine of Kim’s most creative inbox scams. Some of them are terribly misleading.
Here is an example of what this scam looks like:
Whatever you do, don’t call the customer service number
It will connect you with a scammer asking for your credit card information. They might even demand your computer passwords. Other scammers will tell you to download a computer program.
They could install malware or prevent you from accessing files on your computer if you download the program. You may be dealing with a ransomware scam. Tap or click here to learn five easy ways to protect yourself against ransomware.
Bottom line: never call phone numbers in suspicious messages. Here are some DATCP tips to stay protected:
- Be on the lookout for emails and letters claiming that your bank account will be charged for an unknown subscription.
- Do not call the phone numbers listed on suspicious letters received by email or USPS mail.
- Never give computer passwords to a stranger over the phone.
- Never allow remote access to your computer unless it is from a trusted source.
- Do not provide personal information such as date of birth, Social Security number, credit card numbers, or bank account numbers.
If you are curious about the status of subscriptions, go directly to the official sites. There you will find the correct contact numbers.
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