FBI Warning—Do Not Install These Apps
'It starts with an unsolicited message,' the FBI warns, 'and it ends with you losing your savings.' Attacks are now surging across the U.S., targeting citizens with malicious texts, emails and popups. And per the latest warnings, with dangerous apps as well.
'The threat is growing fast,' the bureau says, as citizens across the U.S. are contacted by their banks with messages urging them to 'call tech support for assistance.' When you respond, you're told your money is at immediate risk from a hacker who has broken into one of your devices, and that you will be guided through a process to keep it safe.
But the 'hacker' is a phantom. The real threat comes from the person you're speaking with on the phone — or rather the people. You will speak with more than one.
Because you've been 'hacked,' tech support will help you install an app to allow them to verify the security on your device. Once that app is installed, they will ask you to check your bank accounts for fraudulent transactions. But as you do so, the attackers can see what you have and where it is. The scammers will then continue to 'help' you move all that money to a safe account, out of reach of the phantom hacker they have invented.
That safe harbor is their own account or crypto wallet. Your money is then gone.
You should not engage with the text or email or popup in the first place. But even if you do, you must never install any apps or software when asked to do so like this. As the bureau warns, 'if someone you don't know contacts you and asks you to download software, no matter who they say they work for, don't do it.' It is that simple.
In recent days we have seen new warnings for citizens to beware these phantom hacker attacks and to beware fake calls from government agencies — including the FBI — that can spoof field office phone numbers to make scams harder to detect.
As ever, the good news is that staying safe is all down to 100% adherence to golden rules. In this instance — never install apps when asked to do so in unsolicited calls, texts or emails. But the same is true with calls from supposed law enforcement on missed jury duty or unpaid fines. And with links in texts about unpaid tolls or motoring fines. And with tech support numbers that pop up on your screen, asking you to call.
These attacks are good and believable. Scammers are polished on calls. They have heard every objection and question before — and they're ready to handle yours. You really do need to adopt a zero tolerance approach to all such unsolicited calls and messages. If you don't engage, you don't get scammed. Just keep that in mind.
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