I was scammed last week on my birthday. It was probably the most stressful birthday I’ve ever had. I won’t trouble you with any specifics because I am going straight into what you can do to prevent it. There are so many risks going online in this new era of technology and being scammed online is becoming more and more common.
Don’t Freak Out
I know it can be scary when you are just browsing the web and suddenly, this website pops up and your laptop started talking to you that it’s a warning that someone is hacking into your computer. But don’t freak out, turn off the sound on your laptop and call the most tech-savvy friend you know. Or go to any technology service that is closest to you. Go to someone you trust with your laptop and let them figure it out. This is usually the first part of the scam and if you do what I say, congrats you are now okay.
Trust your instinct
But, if you are like me and called the number on the website that is supposedly windows tech support, you are one more step into the scam. But that’s okay, you can still pick up some clues that seems fishy. Like if they keep transferring you to different departments, or if they start asking for money. Just hang up right away and take your laptop to the closest tech support you trust. You will be fine.
Save your butt
If you are like me, that have noticed all these cue and clue but somehow still think that they are legit, paid the money and gave them control of your laptop. Congrats to the scammers because the scam is complete. But there is still time to save your money and your laptop as long as you do it right away. Call your bank right away and tell them that you have been scammed into making a transaction and kindly ask them to stop it for you. Take your laptop to the closest tech support your trust and kindly ask them to help you. If you want to go one step further, ask for a new card or cards to make you feel safe.
You did nothing
If you did nothing about it and did not realize it a scam. The only thing I can say is to be smarter next time and I am sorry that this happened. But remember this article for next time, hopefully, there isn’t going to be a next time but who knows. We live in a dangerous world.