Scams
Discover the sneaky tactics used by scammers posing as Geek Squad tech support from Best Buy and learn how to outsmart them
11 Sep 2024
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5 min. read
Hey there tech-savvy readers! For years, Geek Squad has been the go-to for tech assistance, but did you know scammers are using this trusted name to con unsuspecting victims? Yup, it’s true! In fact, the Federal Trade Commission received a ton of complaints in 2023 about scammers pretending to be from Best Buy/Geek Squad. So, let’s dive into the top scams to watch out for and how you can protect yourself.
Exposed: Geek Squad Scams
These scammers are crafty! They use tactics like fake emails and calls to scare you into giving up personal info or cash. Let’s look at some common scams:
- Auto-renewal: You get an email saying your Best Buy/Geek Squad subscription is ending, but it’s fake! Clicking the link could lead to identity theft.
- Invoice fraud: Scammers send a phony invoice to trick you into paying for services you never received.
- Fake AV renewal: They pretend your software subscription is expiring to steal your info.
Red Flags to Watch For
Don’t get duped! Keep an eye out for these warning signs:
- Suspicious email addresses or calls pressuring you for money.
- Unexpected calls asking you to download remote access software.
- Links or attachments in unsolicited emails.
- Grammar mistakes in emails (although scammers are getting better at this).
Stay Safe from Geek Squad Scams
Here’s how to protect yourself:
- Double-check sender emails before responding.
- Avoid clicking on links or attachments in unknown emails.
- If Geek Squad calls out of the blue, hang up and call them back directly.
- Install trusted anti-virus software like ESET.
- Never give out personal info over the phone.
If You’ve Been Scammed
If the worst happens, take these steps:
- Freeze your cards and get new ones.
- Report fraud and request a refund.
- Change your passwords and update security software.
- Contact the FTC to report the incident.
Remember, scammers are always coming up with new tricks, so stay vigilant online!
