There are times when our laptops or desktop computers start to act up, and we don’t know what’s wrong. We may start to see error messages, our computer may run slowly, or apps may start to crash. When this happens, we often look for someone to help us fix the problem.
However, not all computer technicians are created equal. While there are many honest and competent computer help in Sandy and other areas in the US, there are also those who will take advantage of unsuspecting computer users.
Here are 9 telltale signs that your computer technician is a scammer:
- They want you to pay for their services before they do anything.
There are many computer technicians who will try to get you to pay them upfront before they even start working on your computer. This should be a red flag, as any reputable computer technician will not ask for payment until the job is complete.
- They say your computer is infected with viruses or malware.
A common scam tactic is for computer technicians to tell their victims that their computer is infected with viruses or malware. They may then offer to clean your computer for a fee. However, in many cases, your computer may not actually be infected.
- They claim they can speed up your computer by doing a “tune-up” or “optimization.”
Another common scam is for computer technicians to claim they can speed up your computer by doing a “tune-up” or “optimization.” This usually involves running a series of programs that are designed to clean up your computer and make it run faster. However, in most cases, these programs are not actually necessary and do not improve computer performance.
- They try to sell you unnecessary computer equipment or software.
Some computer technicians will try to sell you computer equipment or software that you don’t need, such as an external hard drive or a “registry cleaner.” These products may be overpriced or completely unnecessary. In some cases, the computer technician may even install this software on your computer without your knowledge or consent.
- They give you a low initial estimate and then try to upsell you.
A common tactic used by computer scammers is to give you a low initial estimate for their services and then try to upsell you once they’ve started working on your computer. For example, they may tell you that the problem is more complex than they originally thought and that you need to pay more for their services.
- They pressure you into making a decision on the spot.
When you ask for computer help, there are some computer technicians who will try to pressure you into making a decision on the spot. They may say that the problem is time-sensitive and you need to act fast, or they may try to get you to sign a contract before you have time to think about it.
- They refuse to give you a written estimate.
A reputable computer technician will always give you a written estimate of the cost of their services before they start working on your computer. If the computer technician you’re dealing with refuses to give you a written estimate, this is a red flag. You should always get a written estimate before agreeing to any computer repairs.
- They have no professional credentials.
When you’re looking for computer help, it’s important to make sure that the computer technician you’re dealing with is qualified and has the necessary credentials. A reputable computer technician will be able to show you their qualifications and credentials. If the computer technician you’re dealing with can’t or won’t show you their credentials, this is a red flag.
- They are not willing to answer your questions.
If you have questions about the computer technician’s services or fees, they should be able to answer them without hesitation. If they are not willing to answer your questions or seem evasive, this is another red flag. You should always feel confident and comfortable with the computer technician you’re dealing with. If you don’t, it’s best to look elsewhere for help.
If you think you may be dealing with a computer scammer, the best thing to do is to end the conversation and find another computer technician. Don’t let yourself be scammed out of your hard-earned money!