How To Remove The Geek Squad Scam – The Ultimate Guide

October 18, 2023 By Janne Smith No Comments 17 minutes

Humans are relying on technology and it has never been greater in this fast-paced digital age. From smartphones to laptops, the devices hold memories, personal information, and connections with the world.

It is no wonder when technical issues arise, people seek out trustworthy and reliable tech support. Enter the Geek Squad – a name that has become identical to expert assistance and peace of mind.

Although, amidst the vast array of legitimate tech support services, an unfortunate reality persists – the existence of the Geek Squad scam. This comprehensive guide aims to shed light on this deceptive phenomenon and equip you with the knowledge and tools to safeguard yourself against such fraudulent schemes.

Let’s embark on a journey through the intricate web of the Geek Squad scam. Here you will understand its origins to recognize the warning signs and navigate this treacherous landscape together.

But you don’t have to fear because armed with the right information you will be empowered to protect yourself and your loved ones from falling victim to these unscrupulous practices.

What Is Geek Squad?

Geek Squad is a simple subsidiary of Canadian and American consumer electronic corporation Best Buy. But originally it was an independent company that was founded by Robert Stephens who was a Chief Inspector on June 16, 1994.

It offers multiple services related to computers and provides accessories for residential as well as commercial consumers. At Geek Squad you can easily find services in-store, on-site, and over the Internet through remote access and also offer emergency support 24 hours on-site and via telephone.

The company started to work solely on computer-related devices but later on, they also help the consumer with issues diagnoses and repairs of all electronics and appliances.

Geek Squad Scam Taking Its Toll On General Public

No doubt Geek Squad is a great company and has been working to provide the best services to its clients. But, you can never avoid scammers, they’re everywhere and pose a great threat to the general audience.

In the case of Geek Squad, scammers target the game’s users by using its name. They impersonate the company’s technical support and deceive people. The aim is to trick the audience into handing over personal, financial, and other important information.

Understanding The Roots Of Geek Squad Scam – How Does It Work?

The Geek Squad scam is referred to as an imposter scam. Here, the criminal pretends to be the tech support team and offers their help users with their:

• Accounts
• Applications
• Devices

But the real case is very different. In reality, they try to steal personal information and get their target to pay for fraudulent services or obtain remote access to their devices.

Here’s how it works in a step-by-step flow:

• Step 1: The scammers usually reach their target through text messages, emails, and phone calls. In a few cases, they make fake websites to build trust and pretend to be the Geek Squad.
• Step 2: Once they contact their target, they usually claim that their devices are being compromised and that they owe money for the Geek Squad subscriptions. Sometimes they go for the options where the target must confirm their identity by providing their personal information. Such as their bank details like credit card number, social security number (SSN), or anything else.
• Step 3: It usually depends on the type of scam that they might convince their target to download any application or malware. This allows them remote access to your smartphone, laptop, tablet, or PC devices.
• Step 4: Once the target catches the bait, they continue the scam for more and more money. This can be either by turning their bank balance to zero or finding something on your device and using it to blackmail them.

The ones enlisted to get help from Geek Squad or have bought something from Best Buy are more likely to be on the list of scammers than the others. And the worst-case scenario is that the victims of those scams are usually over 60. Meaning, senior citizens are most at risk of those kinds of scams.

Seven Types Of Geek Squad Scams You Should Beware Of

1. Geek Squad Auto-Renewal

This is the type of scam where the impostors usually send emails or some kind of text messages that claim that you have been signed-up for the subscription of Geek Squad service. This will lead to you being billed for hundred and thousands of dollars if you do not cancel it.

Although the message usually contains a phone number that you can call if you find the claimed charges a mistake. But once you dial the contact number, they will eventually ask for information related to your credit card and other information to refund you.

But in reality, they are going to use the information so that they can steal from you. There are many cases here where this scam evolves as a refund scam. And this usually happens when the impersonator uses the accounts or credit cards that they stole from others to refund your extra money. And, they will use the same tactic on you, i.e., they’re only willing to refund you the amount.

2. Phishing Emails Embedding Fake Software

In this type of scam, the scammer usually mimics to be the technician at Geek Squad. They tell you that your devices are infected with harmful malware. If you respond to their email or call the number in the message, they will continuously pressure you to download the so-called antivirus software. Or, give remote access to your device to them.

In both of those cases, you will provide the scammers access to your devices and to the most sensitive information. This includes:

• Photos
• Videos
• Messages

When you install the antivirus, the hidden malware will enable access to the hacker so that they can spy on the device. Giving access to the spy means allowing them to do anything they want through your device. They can scan it for your saved password to extort your delicate information.

Any call or email claiming that a virus has infected your device and there is a chance of hacking. But in actuality, nobody can tell if your computer or any other device is hacked without access to it.

Anyone asks for remote access to your smartphone, computer, or any other device to solve the problem. You must beware of anyone who is asking you to install any software or wants to access your devices.

3. Tech Support Team Of Geek Squad

Other tech scams, including the Geek Squad tech scam are also run through mobile calls. It happens when you connect with them through calls and they will insist you download any malware to the device or even convince you to send money for the services.

You will get an auto-renewal message or email or get an invoice even if you didn’t subscribe to the Geek Squad services. Fake messages or emails also have warning signs such as “scam”, “fake”, or “phishing.” You will be convinced to call the given phone number beside the authentic and official Best Buy number.

There are two ways through which the Geek Squad phone call scam work:

• The hackers call the target to claim that the device is infected by malware. Or that they owe money for the services.
• They create fake websites that have the fraud cell numbers for the Geek Squads. When the target calls them, they track the calls and route them to the phones and run scams.

You will receive an unsolicited fake call where the scammers will pretend to be Geek Squad team support. They will not let you go and will try to convince you until you do as they said. They won’t let you hang up easily because they know once you drop the call, the scam is over. There will keep persuading you with every last effort they can do.

4. Misleading Browser Pop-Ups

One of the methods the scammers use to target the common public is by using pop-ups on sketchy websites. For example, illegitimate websites for streaming. On those popups, they claim that your device has a virus and requires instant care.

Most times these ads take over the whole screen and display the warning messages that your device is at harm and requires instant attention. When a person clicks on the pop-up, it will automatically lead to downloading an antivirus (which in actuality is malware or adware, or ransomware).

There are no plugins that can scan the viruses on your devices and if you get any message that claims your device that your device has been infected – it is a scam. Beware of any type of popup with the tagline “device cleaner.” They are laden with malware. If you are unsure about these apps or software, you can Google the name of that software to find if it is authentic or not.

5. Fake Password Reset

In this type of scam, the hackers usually send fake emails from Best Buy and claim that your password reset is not working. The email looks legitimate and includes a link that will help you to change the passwords – even if you do not have any passwords at all.

But when you click on the provided link, it will take you to a fake Best Buy login page but in actuality, it is a phishing website that is designed to steal your personal information. When you enter your real Best Buy credentials (account name and password), it becomes easy for scammers to use them. They later make fraudulent purchases or steal other financial information.

Receiving a password reset email for the account you don’t even have. After clicking on the link, it will take you to a website that is not secure or is not the official “BestBuy.com” domain.

6. Accidental Refund Or Overpayment

These scams occur when the fraudsters send the target stolen funds more than they expect and then ask you to refund them. Let’s say you get an auto-renewal email from the Geek Squad. As soon as you call the support phone number mentioned in the message, they will ask you to fill out a form to get a refund.

But the form is just a façade, and later, the agent asks for remote access to your device for finalizing the refund. After this, they “accidentally” (not so) send you extra money as your refund and will ask you to return the difference to their account. But the whole scam procedure is a scam and you will be out the full amount of money, including a refund and extra money.

Scammers will ask you to access your device remotely to facilitate a fund. You are wired a refund for more than the amount stated on the bill. And if this happened you don’t have to send money. Wait a few days for funds to clear or contact the bank and tell them what happened to you

7. Bogus “Protection” Plan Offers

It is not as dangerous as the Geek Squad scams, but still can wreak havoc for the target. In this scheme, scammers pose as the technician who will contact you via phone or email and will tell you that they are selling some protection services such as antivirus. But remember that these tools either will do nothing or load malware.

These tools don’t have any online reviews or existence. Scammers will contact you to try and sell you digital security services. An email or call is a huge red flag and an indication that you are dealing with scammers

Spotting Geek Squad Scams Becomes Easier With These Tips

You can easily spot a fake message or mail by following the tips below;

Verification Of Validity

You should always double-check the provided credentials of the person who claims to be a technician at Geek Squad. Must ask for the identification or you can also contact the Geek Squad directly to confirm the affiliation of the company and that person.

Spontaneous Calls Or Emails

Beware of unsolicited emails or any call that claims to be from the company. The authentic technician doesn’t reach the customer without any prior communication.

Requests To Access Device Remotely

The hackers will ask to have remote access to your devices. But you must not grant access to it unless you have initiated a request or verified the authenticity of the technician.

Demands Upfront Payments

The real Geek Squad services always follow a transparent model for their pricing. And it means that someone who demands immediate payment or asks for the details related to the credit card is a scammer.

Suspicious Refund Claims

Be skeptical of any unexpected refund claims from the supposed agents of Geek Squads. The scammers will use this as a strategy to obtain access to the financial information.

Objective Communication

Always pay attention to their language and tone when you communicate with them through calls. They often use robotic or generic responses without personalizing specific details.

Pressurizing Tactics

Hackers will pressure you to rush into making decisions or providing personal information. The real Geek Squad team understands the importance of customers’ comfort and will not pressure them to decide instantly.

Unlock The Secrets To Foiling The Geek Squad Scam

Geek Squad scammers are very dangerous and in a few days, they can drain out the targets’ accounts and get their hands on the sensitive information. That is why it is better to prevent yourself from these scams.

Some ways are there via you can make sure you are safe from Geek Squad scams.

• Never click on any links provided in suspicious emails. Always look if the link is not evil on any virus detector tool.
• Avoid downloading applications from unknown sources, and never click on suspicious advertisements and pop-up messages on the website.
• Keep your devices updated with security patches for your system’s common vulnerabilities.
• If you get any scam email, call, or text message, block the sender immediately.
• Make sure to reach out to the official Geek Squad if you are unsure whether the technician is honest. Visit the official website or contact the official number for further support.
• Recognize the signs of phishing emails, such as grammatical mistakes, unnecessary attachments, etc.
• Do not provide any type of password, 2FA codes, or other sensitive data to the callers or emailers.
• Double-check phone numbers to ensure you get calls from the official number of Geek Squad.
• You can also sign up for good credit monitoring because it will help you scan the bank and other financial accounts for any signs of fraud.

Smashing Geek Squad Scammers – Remove The Fraudulent Scam With Antivirus

You can use the antivirus to remove and combat scams like the Geek Squad scam. This type of scam typically involves scammers who impersonate representatives of the authentic tech support services offered by the Geek Squad. If you want to remove a Geek Squad scam, then antivirus software is a good option for several reasons, some of which are given below.

Real-Time Protection

• Antivirus programs have real-time scanning features that will help monitor the system for harmful activities.
• They detect and block any suspicious processes or connections initiated by the scammers-controlled software on your computer.

Malware Detection And Removal

• Antivirus is designed to identify and remove various types of malware, including spyware, keyloggers, and remote access tools that the scammers might use during their Geek Squad scam.
• It can easily quarantine or delete malicious files and prevent any further damage.

Phishing Protection

• There are many antivirus programs that have built-in phishing protection features that can detect fraudulent websites and phishing emails.
• Because scammers mostly use deceptive websites and emails to trick their victims into falling for the scam, an antivirus will help you prevent users from accessing those malicious sources.

System Cleanup

• If a user has fallen victim to the Geek Squad scam, the scammer might have installed some additional harmful software on their devices.
• The antivirus will perform a comprehensive system scan to find and remove any malware that may have been left behind.

Vulnerability Assessment

• Antivirus mainly includes features that assess the security vulnerabilities of a system.
• By searching and notifying the users about any outdated software, weak passwords, or missing security patches, an antivirus can help the users address these vulnerabilities and reduce the risk of falling victim to the scam.

Safe Browsing

• Some antivirus programs offer safe browsing features that can block access to known harmful websites or display warnings when users try to visit some dangerous websites.
• This will also prevent the users from inadvertently visiting scammer-controlled.

Defeating Geek Squad Scams: The Fastest VPNs Creative Solution

The Geek Squad scam becomes a growing menace in the digital world, preying on the suspecting victims seeking technical assistance. However, there is nothing to fear because a powerful ally stands ready to dismantle any fraudulent scams.

The Fastest VPN is here to help you with everything you might need to remove the Geek Squad scam.

Unmasking Scammers

The robust encryption and anonymous browsing capabilities of The Fastest VPN empower its users to unmask the true intention of Geek Squad scammers. The VPN ensures that scammers cannot trace your identity and location by masking your IP address and encrypting online activities. This anonymity makes it very hard for scammers to target and exploit the public.

Securing Sensitive Information

Geek Squad scammers often employ phishing techniques that lure the victims to fake websites or emails that mimic the original support channels. The Fastest VPN has advanced features such as malware and phishing protection that help detect and block such fraud attempts.

The VPN acts as a digital shield that prevents scammers from tricking the public and revealing sensitive information by safeguarding against phishing.

Geographical Protection

The Fastest VPN boasts a vast network of servers spread across different countries that enable its users to mask their location and appear to be accessing the internet from elsewhere.

This feature proves invaluable in countering the Geek Squad scam as scammers often operate from specific regions. When you change your virtual location through the Fastest VPN, you can easily and effectively evade their traps and make sure that your online safety is up to date.

Educating And Empowering Users

In addition to the mind-blowing technological prowess, The Fastest VPN also plays a prominent role in educating users about online scams, including the Geek Squad scams. The VPN provider equips users with the knowledge needed to recognize these scams through customer support, tutorials, and informative blogs.

The Fastest VPN acts as a protective force in eliminating any Geek Squad scam by empowering users to make informed decisions.

The Fastest VPN’s Features Helping To Avoid Geek Squad Scam

There are several features that The Fastest VPN provides to keep the Geek Squad Scams at bay, including a kill switch and DNS leak protection.

Wrapping Up

So, Geek Squad scams target innocent public via text messages, calls, or emails. Multiple ways are there through which they scam people and empty their bank accounts. But with proper precautions and protections, you can save yourself from these Geek Squad scams with the help of potential antiviruses or The Fastest VPN.

They can help in removing the scam and also prevent you in the future from further scams similar to this. So make sure that you have everything set for yourself with the help of those tools and services and enjoy tension-free browsing.

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