Internet-connected televisions not only offer viewers new opportunities for interactive television, they also allow criminals to target more victims. One scam that experts are increasingly noticing is pop-up messages on smart TVs. The aim is to steal personal data and money.
Smart TV: Experts warn about this message
The non-profit organization Better Business Bureau (BBB) has reported how criminals are now using smart TVs to lure their victims into a trap. The scam is so simple that many could fall for it without knowing it. It aims to get consumers to first access a streaming service on their smart TV.
As part of the scam, a pop-up window appears informing the user that there is a problem with their device or streaming subscription. The message appears either in the middle of the TV screen or on the sides. Households are prompted to call a phone number or visit a website to fix the problem. This can be expensive.
Neither pay a fee nor allow access
“Don't fall for it,” warns the BBB. If you call the number provided, you will be contacted by a supposed customer service representative. They will usually insist that you pay an activation fee or set up remote access to the television.
Anyone who pays the fee will be asked by the criminals for their credit or debit card number.
However, anyone who allows remote access to the device or clicks on a link provided could find malware on the TV and grant further access to confidential personal data. In extreme cases, criminals could also intercept passwords from streaming providers or access personal data.
In some cases, the criminals also ask you to “fix” the problem by paying with a gift card. To do this, you must provide the gift card number over the phone.
This is how those affected should react
According to BBB experts, anyone who is unsure whether certain claims on television are fraudulent should do the following things (preferably in advance) and keep the following in mind:
Check all fees you are required to payIf you are asked to pay an activation fee, a fee for antivirus protection or any other type of fee, you should first find out exactly what services you are being asked to use. Because it usually doesn't stop there. The scammers then ask for not just one, but several activation or registration fees. As a general rule, a customer service would never ask for such a fee.
Don’t fall for fake websites. Criminals often create fake websites. Their web address differs from the original by only one or two letters. Nevertheless, they are a threat even on Smart TVs. Therefore, make sure that the page you are visiting actually comes from the manufacturer.
Be sure to check! If a customer service phone number appears in a pop-up window, check it before calling. You should always be able to find the correct customer service phone number on a streaming service or TV manufacturer's website. A simple Google search will do the trick.
Do not let anyone control your device remotely. Criminals offer this service because it is supposedly quick and easy. However, criminals can access sensitive data.
