05/27/2023
There has been a rash of scams, phishing, and otherwise malicious activity going around for the past several months. The most common thing we are seeing is scary emails saying you bought some really expensive thing and you need to call a certain phone number given in the email in order to get a refund. This kind of malicious activity with fraudulent emails is called "phishing," and it's very popular right now.
These emails look pretty valid -- but they are not. When you think about it, what kind of company sells you something and then turns around to encourage you to call them for a refund? Not too many. But these emails are written to scare you and get you to panic and call them.
If you get an email saying that you made a big purchase AND the only way to get a refund is to call a phone number in that email, this is a big red flag. Don't call it. If you are worried about an unauthorized charge to your account, you can call or log into your bank or your credit card company directly to reassure yourself that no charge has been made.
In general, never give anyone your password, your bank account number, your credit card number, or any personal information. Don't let anyone you don't know and trust remote control into your computer. If you find yourself on a phone call where you are asked for personal info, hang up. They count on you not wanting to be rude and staying on the phone long enough to divulge more than you want to. Be rude. Just hang up.
Here's Cris on the subject:
PC Security FAQs Q: How can I avoid becoming a victim of phishing scams? A: Phishing is the email equivalent of telephone scams. You may occasionally get emails that look like they came from your bank or other account provider asking that you submit some personal or account information, perhaps war...
