Open our monthly email to view the latest computing device tips and news to keep you informed and safe.
Computer/ Internet Tips & News
June 2020
This Month:
This month's most common scam
How well can you spot a scam? - take the quiz
Ad blockers becoming less effective
Technology Humor
ICYMI (In Case You Missed It) : Previous articles and news you may have missed
How you can support your local computer technician
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This month's most common scams that you need to be aware of - take the quiz
Scammers are becoming increasingly clever at deceiving people into clicking links, using the phone and handing over control of their computer to a stranger claiming to be from a well-known company. Here are some of the most common scams we've encountered recently:
A notice that your bank account or credit card has just been charged for an amount in the hundreds of dollars for a continuation of services or a license that you "previously authorized". To dispute the charge you're told to call the number in the notice... SCAM! They're just baiting people to call the number. When calling the number, you would be coerced into believing that there's an urgent problem with your financial information or device. WHAT YOU SHOULD DO: Ignore the email but keep an eye on your financial accounts for unrecognized or unauthorized charges - as you always should. But most likely nothing has been charged as indicated in the phony email.
You receive an email that your account has been hacked and your very private information will be released to all of your contacts unless you pay a ransom... SCAM! The scammer simply found your email address and a password leaked in a well-known data breach database - but not necessarily your email password. WHAT YOU SHOULD DO: If you don't have a unique password securing your email account - do it now. Otherwise, ignore the email.
As I wrote in 2014 Adblock Plus continues to be our favorite ad blocker. While there are hundreds of available "ad blocker" extensions that can be added to Chrome or other web browsers, they have become increasingly ineffective as more websites can detect when an ad blocker is being used. An example is Yahoo Mail which has recently been notifying users of ad blockers that they can either UNblock ads, pay to go ad-free, or downgrade to an older version of Yahoo web mail.
How you can support your local computer technician
With recent campaigns urging people to support local businesses, I'd like to remind you that Computer Techs is a local business - serving the Reno area since 2003. Not only do we appreciate your support, we also appreciate your referralsby letting others know how we've helped you. You can also purchase an eGift Card in $25 increments valid toward payment of our services. Please refer to the links below for more information.
