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Geek Squad services include repairing computer problems and setting up a new tablet or computer. They provide services over the internet and on-site with in-store options.
Unfortunately, some subscribers are falling victim to scams. There are email scams and others. Read on to find out the ploys that get used to trick users.
Can You Get Scammed Using Geek Squad?
Scammers can reach out using a fake phone number, text, or email to steal sensitive information.
Potential victims are sent a phishing email. Scammers create urgency by masquerading behind items like legitimate antivirus software. The Geek Squad email scam works because Geek Squad, a subsidiary of Best Buy, is one of the big legitimate companies in the space.
Such emails are after a user’s bank account numbers. Potential identity theft can start with malicious attachments. So watch out for a generic “Dear Customer” opening because any emails about a user’s subscription should use their name.
Be Aware of These
There are a few telltale signs to watch out for, like grammatical errors. Watch out for the following suspicious emails and other scams.
1. Geek Squad Scam Email
Many of these scam email ploys create a sense of urgency like you only have 24 hours to reverse a charge. And they come from a Gmail address not an official Geek Squad email address. Plus they don’t include your name.
2. Remote Access Geek Squad Scam
These types of scams attempt to gain access to your computer by taking advantage of your fear of viruses. Scammers can use the command prompt tool to generate threat summary messages.
Watch out for unsolicited phone calls, emails, and pop-up windows.
3. Complete Network Security Invoice Scam
These are other versions of the phishing scam. They work by scammers trying to pose as a legitimate company. Hackers send out fake emails to the potential victim. One ruse says the supplier details have changed. Another says you’ve been infected with a virus, and you get charged a lot of money.
4. Worthless Protection Plan Scams.
Scammers pose as technicians and try and sell you antivirus protection. Email messages that don’t come from official Geek Squad email sources should be deleted.
Worthless tools have no online reviews. Watch the ones that say you’ll be auto-renewed today.
5. Automatic Renewal Scam
This scam says Geek Squad has auto-renewed your plan. If you want to dispute the charges you need to call a number. Don’t do it or give out any banking details. The email claiming to be legit says you’ll be renewed today.
Here’s some more info on how these scams work. The auto-renewal scam is common. Some of these even come with an official-looking but malicious order receipt. They can even detail a subscription fee. Check the logo on any suspicious email.
More Geek Squad Scams to Watch Out For
Scam emails might ask you to download software from email attachments. Then pay scammers a ransom in untraceable gift cards. Another red flag. Scammers ask for too much money and maybe even your banking information for a phony maintenance plan.
6. Tech Support Scams.
These look like they come from an official email address. They offer support services for being a loyal customer. You get a false sense of security. The fake customer service rep asks for your credit card info. Keep in mind that scammers are even using registry keys to hide malware.
7. Accidental Overpayment Scams
You get an email from what looks like the parent company. Someone tells you you’re owed a refund. You haven’t bought anything from Geek Squad. But if you call the fake number, they’ll ask for a small fee to get the money
8. Free Scan Scams.
This one is common. It tells a user their computer could be infected and they need to run a scan. The hacker finds some nonexistent viruses. They tell you that your antivirus software needs to be updated. This scam will redirect victims to compromised malicious pages.
How to Avoid a Geek Squad Scam
Here are a few tips on avoiding scam emails on your electronic devices. Save your bank and credit card details with these suggestions. And avoid scammers looking to gain remote access.
- Watch for a ‘dear valued customer’ email when you don’t have a Geek Squad subscription.
- Watch the sender’s email address and check for errors. Bad grammar and spelling are red flags. Generic greetings like “dear user” that don’t use your name are another tip-off.
- Don’t give anyone verification codes, credit card numbers, passwords, usernames, or phone numbers via email or text.
- If any email sender asks for more money with gift cards, they’re up to no good. Any reputable company like Best Buy wouldn’t do that. Check the sender’s email address. It shouldn’t be from a Gmail or other generic account.
- Don’t call the phone number you see in a pop-up window. Especially when it tells you your auto-renewal will take place that day.
How Do I Report a Geek Squad Email Scam?
If you’ve got an email letter that looks like a scam, you’ll want to report it. Maybe you suspect an auto-renewed renewal from Geek Squad? Or suspicious phishing emails? Email claims you want to make are done by calling 1-888-BEST BUY (1-888-237-8289)
Does Geek Squad Offer a Subscription?
Small businesses can get a computer protection annual subscription for six devices that costs $199.99. A Geek Squad subscription can include a monthly plan with a setup fee of $99 and a monthly fee of up to $49.99 per user.
You can even book in-store services through the Best Buy website.
Electronic consent in the form of a digital signature can be a problem. If you get scammed to the point where you sign for something, these signatures can be copied and transferred without your knowledge.
Is Geek Care Online Legitimate?
There is a range of different complaints about Geek Care online. Finally, if you’re looking for a good list of malware removal guides because you have fallen prey to a Geek Total Protection Email Scam, here’s a link.
Image: Depositphotos
