Scammers Hijack Bank of America, Netflix, Microsoft Websites for Fake Content

Fake phone numbers, this kind of scam can be tricky to spot. Scammers are crafty—using tactics like impersonating major brands to try and trick us into giving up our personal information or even access to our devices. It’s a sneaky move, but there are ways to stay safe.

One common way scammers are tricking people is by paying for sponsored ads on search engines like Google. These ads lead you to a fake website that looks like the real deal. When you go to the help or support section, instead of finding the genuine phone number, you see a fake one that the scammers have planted. It’s hard to tell the difference because the website looks authentic, and the web address seems legit.

For example, scammers have targeted big brands like Netflix, Microsoft, and PayPal using this method. They want you to call the fake number so they can try and get your personal details, financial information, or even remote access to your computer. It’s a scary situation, but there are ways to protect yourself.

One way to stay safe is by using tools like Malwarebytes Browser Guard, which can help detect and warn you about these kinds of scams. It’s free and can be a valuable defense against scammers trying to trick you.

There are also some red flags to watch out for, like unusual phone numbers in the website URL, strange search terms in the browser address bar, or urgent language like “Call Now” or “Emergency Support” on the site. If something seems off, trust your gut and investigate further before giving out any personal information.

And remember, before calling a support number you find online, double-check it against information you already have from the company. If they don’t match up, it could be a scam. And if someone asks for personal or financial information during the call that doesn’t seem right, it’s okay to hang up.

Scammers are always finding new ways to try and trick us, but by staying informed and using tools like Malwarebytes Browser Guard, you can protect yourself from falling victim to their schemes. Stay safe and stay vigilant!