FTC warns of tech support imposter scams [video]

Callers impersonate legitimate technical support companies to fool computer users into handing over their personal information or sending money and the Federal Trade Commission has some helpful tips to keep Americans safe.

You get a call from someone who says he’s a computer technician. He might say he’s from a well-known company like Microsoft, or maybe your internet service provider. He tells you there are viruses or other malware on your computer. He says you’ll have to give him remote access to your computer or buy new software to fix it.

But is the caller who he says he is? Judging by the complaints to the Federal Trade Commission, no. These scammers might want to sell you useless services, steal your credit card number, or get access to your computer to install malware, which could then let them see everything on your computer.

The FTC recommends that if you should hang up, give no personal or financial information and pass this information on to a friend. Suspected scams can be reported online or by phone at 1-877-382-4357