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Cybercriminals are taking advantage of the reputations of trusted tech companies like Apple and Microsoft to defraud unsuspecting users, according to a new report. Following high-profile product releases, such as the latest iPhone, there has been a surge in tech support scams. These scams often involve hackers impersonating companies like Apple and Microsoft to convince victims that their devices are compromised. By doing so, they trick users into revealing sensitive information like passwords or bank details. The growing sophistication of these scams is now enhanced by artificial intelligence (AI), making them harder to detect and avoid.
How Scammers Operate
Hackers typically use deceptive tactics, such as pop-up messages or phishing emails, to scare users into believing that their devices have been infected by malware. These messages usually prompt users to call a fake support number, where scammers further manipulate victims into divulging personal information.
The scammers rely on the strong reputation of brands like Apple and Microsoft to appear credible. As Cliff Steinhauer, Director of Information Security at the National Cybersecurity Alliance, pointed out in a CNBC interview, “Because, who doesn’t know Microsoft or Apple as a brand?” This tactic helps scammers exploit users’ trust in these companies, making the fraudulent schemes appear more legitimate.
AI Making Scams More Convincing
The use of AI technology has made it easier for scammers to disguise their fraudulent schemes. AI-generated messages and logos can look highly convincing, making it difficult for even tech-savvy individuals to spot a scam. From fake emails to malvertising (malicious advertising), scammers are deploying advanced tools to target a wide range of users.
In phishing emails, scammers create an urgent situation, warning users that their systems are compromised. These emails seem to come from legitimate companies like Microsoft, PayPal, or Norton, but clicking on the links often leads users to a fake page asking for their personal information.
Malvertising: A New Threat
Malvertising is another growing scam technique. Hackers purchase ads on search engines like Google or Microsoft Bing, which appear as sponsored content during a search query. For instance, if a user searches for “Microsoft support,” they might encounter a fraudulent ad with a fake support number. When users call the number, they are directed to scammers posing as legitimate tech support agents.
How to Protect Yourself
If you believe you’ve been scammed, it’s critical to act quickly. First, change the username and password of any account you provided during the scam. Immediately contact your bank to report any suspicious activity and notify law enforcement authorities. To prevent future scams, ensure that your device has strong antivirus protection installed and be cautious when clicking on links from emails or ads.
By staying alert and aware of these tactics, users can better protect themselves from falling victim to tech support scams.