KPD warning residents of Geek Squad Scammers

The Kerrville Police Department is warning residents to be aware of scammers using fake emails pretending to be an official transaction confirmation from Geek Squad, Best Buy’s tech support service. The emails sent information regarding a subscription renewal or an order. Scammers are also attempting this scam via phone.

According to KPD, one local victim was scammed out of thousands of dollars as a result of this particular scam. Once a target grants them remote access, the scammers may make bank transactions, install malicious software, access emails for financial information, or charge “cancellation fees.”

KPD states that the scammers use fake invoice numbers, renewal dates, official logos and promotional banners to make the email look legitimate. Scammers also include a phone number and urge recipients to contact them should they need assistance with an order. If a recipient calls the listed number, the scammers claim that a transaction has taken place from their account, but cancellation can occur if the recipient gives them heir personal banking information.

Anyone receiving an email or call claiming to be from Geek Squad, or any computer or cyber-related company that involves a purchase or transaction which the recipient knows nothing about should block or delete all said correspondence. Never reply to an email, or click a link provided in a suspect email. If there is any doubt that a call or email is legitimate, look up the company’s contact information yourself before making direct contact with the company.

If an individual feels they have been victimized and lost money to scammers, report it to KPD at (830) 257-8181. Anyone who feels that they have been targeted but not scammed should report the incident to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.