Saw a flyer in my town for a 'free virus scan' that looked totally fake

I was walking downtown and saw a flyer stuck to a lamp post. It said 'Free computer virus scan, call this number!' The number was handwritten and the paper looked old. I thought it was a joke at first, but then I remembered my grandma almost fell for something like this last year. She called a similar number and they tried to get her credit card info. It's crazy how these scams are right in our neighborhood. Always check if offers like this are from real companies. Maybe tell your family to be careful too.

3 comments

3 Comments

paul_nguyen1mo ago

Not every sketchy looking flyer is a scam. Some people genuinely want to help with computer issues. Giving them a chance could support a neighbor trying to make ends meet.

claire_ramirez221mo ago

How many people actually need random computer help from a flyer? Most folks ask a friend or go to a store. The ones putting these up are usually after passwords or installing junk. Seen it happen to my aunt. She let a "helper" in and got locked out of her bank account. Supporting neighbors is nice, but this feels like a bad way to do it.

the_terry1mo ago

Scammers design these flyers to prey on people's fear of technology. They count on urgency overriding common sense. Always pause and verify before responding to any unexpected offer.