Install and update security software, and use a firewall.Scammers try to trick people into clicking on links that will download viruses, spyware, and other unwanted software - often by bundling it with free downloads.

If you spot either of those things, you know it’s a scam. Security pop-up warnings from real tech companies will never ask you to call a phone number.Legitimate tech companies won’t contact you by phone, email or text message to tell you there’s a problem with your computer.Here are two things to know to avoid a tech support scammer: When reaching out for help, remember to look out for tech support scammers. Before seeking help, write down the model and serial number of your device, and the name of any software you’ve installed. If it’s covered by a warranty, you may be able to get free tech support - otherwise you may need to pay to get help. Reinstalling your system is the safest way to clean an infected device, but you’ll lose all of the data stored on the device that you haven’t backed up.Ĭontact the manufacturer of your device. To find out how to reinstall your operating system (like Windows or Mac OS), visit your device manufacturer’s website. After recovering your operating system, you’ll want to go back to steps 2, 3 and 4 to ensure that you’ve removed the malware. That is, if it clears the malware problem. Recovering your system typically means you’ll get back a lot of the data stored on the device, so it’s a good alternative to reinstalling your operating system (step 6). To find out how to recover your operating system (like Windows or Mac OS), visit your device manufacturer’s website. If you’ve backed up your data regularly, you’ll minimize what you lose. When using either of these options, you risk losing data. If you’re not able to fix your device with steps 1-4, steps 5 and 6 may resolve the issue. If the scan shows there are no more issues, you’ve likely removed the malware. Run your scan again to make sure everything is clear. You may have to restart your device for the changes to take effect. Run a malware or security Delete anything it identifies as a problem. Consider turning on automatic updates so your software always stays up to date. Check that all software - the operating system, security software, apps, and more - is up to date. Make sure your software is up to date.Some software that claims to be security software to protect you from malware is malware, so it’s important to do your research. Also ask friends and family for recommendations. Find recommendations from independent review sites by doing a search online. Check to see if you have security software on your device - if not, download it.Stop shopping, banking, and doing other things online that involve usernames, passwords, or other sensitive information - until you get your device cleared of any malware.phishing emails that trick you into clicking on a link or opening an attachment.clicking on ads placed by scammers on websites you visit.

clicking links in fake security pop-ups sent to your computer by tech support scammers.

downloading files on removable storage like external hard drives or thumb drives.

downloading content available on file-sharing sites.

downloading free stuff like illegal downloads of popular movies, TV shows, or games.

Your device might get infected with malware through: Malware can get onto your device when you open or download attachments or files, or visit a scammy website. If you think someone may have stolen your information or identity, visit. They use this information to commit identity theft.

runs out of battery life more quickly than it shouldĬriminals work to get malware on your devices so they can steal personal information, like your usernames and passwords, bank account numbers, or Social Security number.

keeps changing your computer’s internet home page.

uses a new default search engine, or displays new tabs or websites you didn’t open.

shows new and unexpected toolbars or icons in your browser or on your desktop.shows ads in places you typically wouldn’t see them, like government websites.serves up lots of pop-ups, inappropriate ads, or ads that interfere with page content.suddenly slows down, crashes, or displays repeated error messages.Your device might have been infected with malware if it Look for unusual behavior from your phone, tablet, or computer. Identity Theft and Online Security Show/hide Identity Theft and Online Security menu items.Unwanted Calls, Emails, and Texts Show/hide Unwanted Calls, Emails, and Texts menu items.Money-Making Opportunities and Investments.Jobs and Making Money Show/hide Jobs and Making Money menu items.Credit, Loans, and Debt Show/hide Credit, Loans, and Debt menu items.Shopping and Donating Show/hide Shopping and Donating menu items.

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