In recent years, technical support scams have become one of the most common methods used by bad actors to steal money or personal information. These scams often target unsuspecting individuals by pretending to be from well-known tech companies. Knowing the signs can help you protect yourself.
Ensure you are speaking with official Linksys support teams by verifying the number you call from support.linksys.com or our main Linksys.com website. Any other domain should not be trusted.
1. Cold Calls
Scammers call you directly, claiming to be from “Linksys” or other known companies. They warn about urgent problems such as malware or viruses, hacked accounts, or software errors, and pressure you to act immediately either by paying for support service or buying security software.
2. Pop-up Warnings
Fake alerts appear on your computer or browser, often saying:
“Your computer is infected. Call this number now!”
These pop-ups may freeze your screen or play alarming sounds to create panic.
3. Search Engine Ads
Fraudulent “support” numbers appear at the top of online search results. If you call them, the scammers pretend to troubleshoot but instead push you into paying for fake services. Do not blindly trust and click “Sponsored” links. Make sure the link points to the official Linksys support site.
4. Phishing Emails
Emails claiming there’s a problem with your account, asking you to click a link or call a number for “support.”
- Urgency and Fear – They insist the issue is critical and must be fixed immediately.
- Remote Access Requests – They ask to connect to your device using tools like TeamViewer or AnyDesk.
- Payment Demands – They request payment in gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.
- Personal Data Requests – They ask for passwords, banking details, or security codes.
- Contact you unexpectedly about a problem with your computer.
- Demand immediate payment through gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfer.
- Insist you install third-party remote access software without a verified, ongoing support case.
- Offer you security software to purchase.
- Threaten to disable your account or device unless you comply.
- Hang Up – If you get an unsolicited support call, end it immediately.
- Do Not Click – Avoid clicking links or calling numbers from suspicious emails or pop-ups.
- Verify First – Contact the company directly using the official website or customer support channels. Official Linksys Support
- Use Security Software – Keep your antivirus and firewall active and up-to-date.
- Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) – Adds an extra layer of protection to your accounts.
- Educate Others – Share this information with family and friends, especially those less tech-savvy.
Remember: Legitimate technical support teams help you when you contact them through official channels, never the other way around. If something feels wrong, it probably is. Trust your instincts, verify the source, and stay safe online.