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CBC COMPUTER SERVICES • SCAM HELP

Am I Being Scammed?

Not sure if something is a scam? You're not alone.

Use the information below to identify common scams and learn what to do. When in doubt, call CBC before you click anything, give out information, or allow remote access.

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Common Scams

Click on a topic below to learn more. Each section expands with information, warning signs, and what to do.

Fake Microsoft / Virus Pop-Ups Scary messages that say your computer is infected.

What It Looks Like

  • A pop-up says your computer has a virus, security problem, or has been blocked.
  • A message tells you to call a phone number for "Microsoft Support" or technical help.
  • It may use Microsoft or Windows logos and official-looking graphics.
  • It may warn about data loss, stolen information, or immediate danger.

Warning Signs

  • The warning suddenly appears while browsing the internet.
  • It tells you to call a phone number immediately.
  • It claims your computer is infected or locked.
  • It uses loud alarms, flashing messages, countdowns, or full-screen warnings.

What NOT to Do

  • Do not call the phone number shown in the pop-up.
  • Do not click links or buttons inside the warning.
  • Do not allow anyone remote access to your computer.
  • Do not provide passwords, financial information, or verification codes.
  • Do not install software they tell you to install.

What to Do Now

  • Try to close the suspicious browser window.
  • If it will not close, stop interacting with the message.
  • If you're unsure, take a photo of the screen with your phone and contact CBC.
  • If someone already connected remotely, disconnect from them and contact CBC promptly.
Still not sure? Call CBC. If something doesn't look right, give us a call. We'll help you determine the safest next step.
845-592-4019
Unexpected Phone Calls Calls claiming to be from Microsoft, a bank, government agency, or another company.

What It Looks Like

  • An unexpected caller claims there is a problem with your computer or an online account.
  • Someone claims to represent Microsoft, your bank, a government agency, or another familiar company.
  • The caller may claim money is missing, your identity was stolen, or your account is in danger.

Warning Signs

  • The call was unexpected.
  • The caller pressures you to act immediately.
  • They ask for passwords, verification codes, banking information, or payment.
  • They want you to install remote-access software.

What NOT to Do

  • Do not provide passwords or verification codes.
  • Do not provide financial or banking information.
  • Do not send money because of an unsolicited call.
  • Do not allow the caller to remotely access your computer.

What to Do Now

  • Hang up the phone.
  • Do not call back using a number the caller gave you.
  • If the call might concern a real account, contact the organization using its official phone number.
  • Contact CBC if the caller discussed your computer or asked you to install software.
Remote Access Requests Someone wants you to install software so they can control your computer.

What It Looks Like

  • Someone asks you to download a remote-support or screen-sharing program.
  • They ask you for a connection number, access code, or permission to control your screen.
  • They may claim they need access to remove a virus, issue a refund, or secure an account.

Warning Signs

  • You did not request technical support.
  • The person contacted you first.
  • They pressure you to install software immediately.
  • They ask you to log into banking or financial accounts while they are connected.

What NOT to Do

  • Do not install remote-access software for an unexpected caller.
  • Do not provide connection or access codes.
  • Do not open banking, email, or other sensitive accounts while a stranger is connected.
  • Do not assume someone is legitimate simply because they know your name or phone number.

What to Do Now

  • End the conversation if you did not request help.
  • If remote access is already active, disconnect the computer from the internet if practical.
  • Do not continue using sensitive accounts until the situation has been reviewed.
  • Contact CBC for assistance checking the computer.
Requests for Gift Cards or Unusual Payments Someone pressures you to pay using gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or another unusual method.

What It Looks Like

  • Someone tells you that you owe money immediately.
  • They instruct you to purchase gift cards or use an unusual payment method.
  • They may claim the payment is needed for taxes, technical support, a family emergency, or a refund.

Warning Signs

  • They insist payment must happen immediately.
  • They tell you to keep the situation secret.
  • They ask for numbers or codes from the back of a gift card.
  • They remain on the phone while you obtain payment.

What NOT to Do

  • Do not purchase gift cards at their direction.
  • Do not send gift card numbers or photographs.
  • Do not send money solely because someone threatens or pressures you.
  • Do not keep the situation secret from someone you trust.

What to Do Now

  • Stop communicating with the person.
  • Independently verify any claimed bill, debt, or emergency.
  • If you've already paid, contact the payment provider promptly to ask what options are available.
  • If your computer was involved, contact CBC before continuing.
Suspicious Emails and Text Messages Fake delivery notices, bank alerts, invoices, refunds, and other suspicious messages.

What It Looks Like

  • A message says you have a delivery problem, unpaid invoice, refund, or account issue.
  • It may appear to come from a bank, retailer, delivery company, or familiar service.
  • It asks you to click a link, open an attachment, call a number, or verify information.

Warning Signs

  • You were not expecting the message.
  • The sender address or phone number looks unusual.
  • The message creates urgency or threatens account closure.
  • It contains an unexpected link or attachment.

What NOT to Do

  • Do not click suspicious links.
  • Do not open unexpected attachments.
  • Do not reply with personal or financial information.
  • Do not call a number contained in a questionable message simply because it looks official.

What to Do Now

  • Open the company's official website or app yourself.
  • Check your account there rather than using the link in the message.
  • Delete or report obviously fraudulent messages.
  • If you're uncertain, show the message to CBC before interacting with it.
Account and Password Scams Tricks designed to steal passwords, verification codes, or access to your accounts.

What It Looks Like

  • A message says your account has been locked or compromised.
  • Someone claims they need to verify your identity.
  • You receive an unexpected password-reset or verification request.
  • A website asks you to sign in after following a link from a message.

Warning Signs

  • Someone asks you to tell them your password.
  • Someone requests a one-time verification code.
  • You're told to sign in through an unexpected link.
  • The message pressures you to act immediately.

What NOT to Do

  • Do not share your passwords.
  • Do not give someone a verification or recovery code.
  • Do not sign in through a suspicious link.
  • Do not approve an unexpected login request.

What to Do Now

  • Go directly to the real service's website or app.
  • Check the account's security information there.
  • If you entered your password into a suspicious website, change it from a trusted device.
  • Review recent account activity and security settings.
Think You're Being Scammed? Call CBC Now. If you're unsure about a message, phone call, email, pop-up, or anything that seems suspicious, call us. It's always better to check before taking action.
845-592-4019 Real People. Real Help. Right Here at CBC.