2024 Geek squad subscription renewal scam

2024 Geek squad subscription renewal scam

Geek squad subscription renewal scam

Scammers are back at it, pretending to be well-known companies in order to defraud individuals. This time, they are posing as representatives of Geek Squad, Best Buy’s tech assistance department.

What are people telling me about the scam and what should you do if you see it?

Geek squad subscription renewal scam

You receive a text message or email informing you that your Geek Squad membership renewal will or has already cost hundreds of dollars. The message states that you must call a phone number within 24 hours if you wish to contest the charge or terminate your membership.

Geek squad subscription renewal scam

The con artist might request remote access to your computer if you call the number, which you shouldn’t do. If you give it to them, they can implant spyware on your computer, get your login information for online banking, and take money out of your bank account.

Geek squad subscription renewal scam

In order to refund your money, some con artists may ask for the details of your bank account. They then create a false transaction to make it appear as though they unintentionally over refunded you. They advise you to purchase gift cards and provide them the gift card numbers and PINs as payment.

Geek squad subscription renewal scam

Such scary communications are sent by con artists to frighten you. Stop letting them. If you believe the message to be authentic, get in touch with the business at a number you can trust. The number provided in the message should not be used.

Geek squad subscription renewal scam

Additionally, look for any fraudulent transactions on your credit card or bank account. If you notice one, notify the institution and request that they reverse it and return your money.

Geek squad subscription renewal scam

Geek squad subscription renewal scam

Find out what to do if you paid a scammer, or gave them your personal information or access to your computer.

If you see a scam, report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

Geek squad subscription renewal scam

Common tactics:

• Unexpected calls or emails: Scammers impersonate Geek Squad representatives and contact you via phone or email, claiming your subscription is expiring or needs immediate renewal. They may create a sense of urgency by mentioning the impending cancellation of services or price hikes.
• High-pressure sales tactics: They might use aggressive tactics to rush you into making a decision without fully understanding the costs or benefits of the renewal.
• Fake invoices or bills: You might receive fraudulent invoices or bills seemingly from Best Buy or Geek Squad, demanding immediate payment for the supposed renewal.
• Phishing links: The emails or messages might contain links that, when clicked, direct you to malicious websites designed to steal your personal information or financial details.

How to protect yourself:

• Always verify: Don’t trust unsolicited calls or emails. Contact Best Buy or Geek Squad directly through their official channels to verify any account information or subscription status.
• Beware of urgency: Scammers often rely on creating a sense of urgency to rush you into making a mistake. Take your time to research and understand any renewal offer before committing.
• Never click suspicious links: Don’t click on any links in suspicious emails or messages claiming to be from Geek Squad or Best Buy.
• Beware of unusual payment requests: Be wary of any unexpected payment requests, especially if they involve unusual methods like wire transfers or gift cards.
• Report the scam: If you suspect you’ve been targeted by a Geek Squad subscription renewal scam, report it to Best Buy, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), and the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).

For more specific information and tips on protecting yourself, you can refer to the following resources:

• Best Buy’s official website: https://www.bestbuy.com/contact-us
• Federal Trade Commission: https://consumer.ftc.gov/
• Internet Crime Complaint Center: https://www.ic3.gov/

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