The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is strengthening its fight against tech support scams with new rules that expand its authority to pursue scammers even when consumers initiate the call. This move aims to protect vulnerable individuals, particularly older adults and those navigating the world of cord-cutting, who are often targeted by these deceptive schemes.
Expanding the Telemarketing Sales Rule
The FTC has amended its Telemarketing Sales Rule to include “inbound” calls to companies offering tech support services through deceptive advertisements or direct mail solicitations. This means the FTC can now take action against scammers who lure consumers into calling them with false claims about computer viruses, malware infections, or other technical problems.
Protecting Older Adults
This expanded rule is particularly crucial for protecting older adults, who are disproportionately targeted by tech support scams. According to the FTC, older adults reported losing $175 million to these scams in 2023, a 10% increase from the previous year. They are also five times more likely to fall victim to these scams compared to younger consumers.
Targeting Cord Cutters
In addition to traditional computer-related scams, fraudsters are increasingly targeting cord cutters with tech support schemes related to streaming devices and services. Scammers may pose as representatives from popular platforms like Roku, offering assistance with setup, troubleshooting, or billing issues. They then use high-pressure tactics to convince victims to pay for unnecessary services or provide access to their personal information.
How the Scams Work
Tech support scams typically involve:
- Deceptive Pop-ups or Emails: Scammers often use alarming pop-up messages or emails that mimic legitimate security alerts, claiming that the victim’s computer or device is infected.
- Unsolicited Phone Calls: Scammers may also make unsolicited phone calls, posing as tech support representatives from well-known companies.
- Requests for Payment: Once they have gained the victim’s trust, scammers will request payment for their “services” through untraceable methods like wire transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrency.
FTC’s Efforts to Combat Scams
The FTC has a long history of combating tech support scams, shutting down major operations and recovering millions of dollars for victims. These new rules provide the agency with additional tools to pursue scammers and hold them accountable.
Protecting Yourself
The FTC advises consumers to be wary of unsolicited tech support offers and to never give remote access to their computers or devices to unknown individuals. If you encounter a suspicious pop-up or email, contact the company directly using a verified phone number or website.
By expanding the Telemarketing Sales Rule and raising awareness about these scams, the FTC aims to protect consumers and crack down on fraudulent tech support operations that prey on vulnerable individuals.