Netflix, Apple, BofA Websites Compromised by Fake Help-Desk Numbers
Scammers are sneaky these days, hijacking search results for popular sites like Apple, Bank of America, Facebook, HP, Microsoft, Netflix, and PayPal. They use a crafty technique called search poisoning to manipulate search engine algorithms, promoting fake help-desk numbers that look genuine. Jérôme Segura, senior director of research at Malwarebytes, explains that scammers pay for ads on Google to lure unsuspecting victims.
For example, let’s say you’re looking for Netflix support and you encounter one of these fraudulent ads. The scammers cleverly embed a fake number in the real page’s search bar. When you click on the link, it takes you to what seems to be the legitimate website, complete with a pre-populated phone number. However, this number is a trap set by cybercriminals to trick you into revealing personal or financial information.
The success of this scam relies on victims trusting the information on the page without questioning it. If you dial the fake number, you could end up speaking to a scammer who will try to extract sensitive data from you or even gain remote access to your computer. This can lead to drained accounts, stolen passwords, and compromised security.
To avoid falling for these scams, watch out for suspicious details like phone numbers in URLs or phrases urging you to “call now.” Legitimate support services won’t ask for your username, password, or bank account number over the phone. Stay vigilant and remember not to share sensitive information with unknown callers. Stay safe!
