Have you ever been targeted by a tech support scam?

Typically when we think of tech scams, we think of phone calls.

Chronicle reader Carl Chase Jr of Lexington received a tech support scam by email instead.

The email seemed innocent at first glance. The subject line referred to an order. The email appeared to be a confirmation that an order had been processed. USTA - United States Technical Association wrote that he placed an order totaling $234. The email listed a number to call if items needed to be modified or canceled within 24 hours.

When he called the number, the scammers said he bought their support service with his computer. This was suspicious because he bought his computer 6 years ago.

As a Tech Talk reader, he suspected the call was a scam before installing anything dangerous on his computer.

Do you know how to spot scam emails?

Check the email address. If it’s an official email from a personal account or free provider like Gmail, be suspicious. If the message says you must take immediate action, be wary. Scammers use urgency to trick you.

If you call a number from an email about a purchase, don’t follow any instructions they give you.

Don’t share personal information.

Scammers try to get you to install dangerous programs like malware or trackers on your computer. They use your information to steal your identity or money.

Report scam emails and phone calls to the FTC at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/