This month the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is sending checks to people who paid Troth Solutions for computer repairs and other services they didn’t need. Remember to be wary of scammers – Microsoft and other companies will not call you unsolicited to fix your computer.
According to an FTC complaint, Troth Solutions pretended to be associated with major technology companies to trick people into giving up remote access to their computers. After gaining access, the defendants allegedly ran fake “diagnostic tests” and then persuaded people to pay hundreds of dollars for unnecessary computer repairs, service plans, anti-virus software, and other products and services.
The defendants used phone calls and online ads resembling security alerts from major technology companies to trick people into contacting the defendants and providing access to the consumers’ computers. The defendants then claimed consumers’ computers were infected with viruses, hacked, or experiencing other problems. According to the FTC, the scheme’s operators used high-pressure tactics to persuade consumers to pay hundreds of dollars for unnecessary computer repair services, service plans, anti-virus protection or software, and other products and services.
As part of this month’s settlement, the FTC is mailing checks averaging $380 and totaling more than $26,000 to 70 consumers.
If you or your business have legal questions or concerns regarding communications law, computer law, privacy, or cybersecurity law matters, contact attorney Jeffrey A. Franklin at Prince Law Offices.
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