CHICAGO — Scammers have found another opportunity to steal personal information from consumers. A new phishing scam has surfaced that is targeting Netflix subscribers, according to the Better Business Bureau.
Targeted users are led to a phony Web page that may resemble the Netflix login page. The Netflix users will enter their account information and the fake Web site will claim the user’s account has been suspended. A fake customer service number is provided and a “representative” recommends the user download the “ Netflix support software,” which is remote login software that gives the fake representative full access to the user’s computer. “Netflix has a good reputation and scammers are taking full advantage of that,” says Steve J. Bernas, president of Chicago’s Better Business Bureau.
There are three key indicators consumers should look for that show an email involved in this scam is not from Netflix: First, the phone number is not Netflix. Instead, the number belongs to a call center in India. Second, the Web page is a pop-up. Third, the “representative” wants to login to your computer via remote software.
To avoid such scams:
? Never let someone login to your computer remotely. When someone logs in, they can access anything, including personal and financial data.
? Do not click links in emails. It is better to type the address in the search bar manually.
? If the URL seems odd, do not continue to go to the site. If it is a scam, it will most likely have an unusual URL. It will likely contain a common name but be accompanied by some jumbled letters or numbers.
? Always look up the company’s phone number on their Web site if you need to call.