If you suddenly had a bogus virus warning pop-up on your computer screen, you were probably targeted by a cyber scammers’ “Ransomware” attempt.
Today, the Feds nailed six companies they say pulled these cyberscams nationwide. Of course, some were based right here in Flori-Duh.
According to the FTC, “Most of the scammers targeted in Operation Tech Trap followed the same pattern of misconduct. They caused consumers’ computers to display advertisements designed to resemble pop-up security alerts from Microsoft, Apple or other technology companies.
These ads warned consumers that their computers are infected with viruses, are being hacked, or are otherwise compromised. The pop-up messages urged consumers to immediately call a toll-free number for assistance. Some of the pop-up ads even included a countdown clock, allegedly representing the time remaining before the computer hard drive would be deleted.”
This is an actual screenshot of a ransomware attempt provided by the FTC. And yes, these scams are often pulled by cyberthieves outside of the U-S and we’re being targeted by them all.
The official FTC news release, including names of the companies charged
How to defend against ransomware
Operation Tech Trap targets tech support scams – and offers insights for business
