What's the issue?
There are many scams these days in the online world.
Here's one that can happen when you - the computer user - is most vulnerable: When you've got a frustrating computer problem and need help right away. Translation: When you're stressed!
Say for example you are having trouble with your HP printer and want to look for help online by doing a web search for HP printer support. Most commonly at the top of the page of your search results you'll see sponsored links (ads) for companies offering help for your problem. However, be careful when proceeding.
Why the concern?
These printer support companies may or may not have your best interests in mind. Don't be fooled by their look-alike logos or claims to be certified or expert in a certain brand of hardware or software. Many of them are overseas (outside U.S. legal jurisdiction) and are trying to lure you to call them, so they can remote into your computer and sell you services to fix various issues they claim are wrong with your computer (in addition to what you called about).
How to protect yourself against such scams?
Always look at the web address (URL) of any link before you click it. It if doesn't belong to the vendor of the product you are researching, such as hp.com, be wary about any offer of support.
And be very, very particular about who you let access your computer remotely.
Once connected to your computer they can install software to snoop on your system, cause infection, and gain remote access in the future without your permission. Plus, if you give them your credit card for payment without some due diligence, you could be in further jeopardy of identity theft.
I'm not saying there are no legitimate remote support services or phone tech support to be found online. Just be very cautious.
When should you be alarmed?
If you take the gamble and hire someone online, and they do solve your problem, just say no the minute they try to sell you extra services. Only pay for what they quoted for the specific issue you contacted them about. Ask them to email you an invoice, so you can see the service and charges before you provide credit card info, and only give the minimal payment info - don't provide your billing address, your phone number, etc.
Where can you find more info on this topic?
Here is a site with some pointers for avoiding online fraud.
Who can help?
Here are my rules of thumb for seeking tech support:
First, contact the hardware or software manufacturer, especially if under warranty. Even if you have to pay for the call (for out of warranty items), they are more likely to help because they usually know their product best, including all the failings.
Second, call the retailer who sold you the product if you can't get adequate tech support from the manufacturer. Ask if the product can be replaced. Even if you have to pay for shipping, it might be cheaper than buying a new one. (And, remember, they want to keep you as a customer.)
Third, ask a friend or relative for a referral to a local IT professional. Hiring someone local and referred gives you a level of comfort with the provider, and supports the local economy. Get a quote, because the cost of a service call may lead to your biting the bullet and replacing the product instead of attempting a fix.
In Sum
In general we tend to have faith in people and would prefer a win-win business exchange. The Internet is a wonderful resource. But the opportunity to take advantage of people online is too tempting. The Internet facilitates quick and somewhat anonymous commerce, so it's easy to set up scams.
As consumers on the Internet we need to double and triple our guard. Hope for the best, expect the worse!
Thanks for reading. You're feedback is appreciated!
Aloha, Sam
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