Updated 6/10/26:
Cybercriminals are always looking for new ways to trick people, and we at Computer Techs are seeing an uptick in scams that target computer and internet users. These scams often look convincing on the surface, but with a little extra caution, you can spot the red flags before becoming a victim.
Fake Invitations and Social Security Statements
One of the most dangerous scams making the rounds is an email that appears to come from someone you know—a neighbor, friend, professional service provider or even a family member. The message might say something like “RSVP for the celebration (of life)” ,“Click here to view the invitation.”, “Check out this important document”, “Check out the pictures”, “We’re updating our records”.
If you click the link, it discreetly downloads a remote access trojan onto your computer. Once installed, scammers can take control of your system, access your online accounts, steal data, or even lock you out completely.
Since the re-named file is a legitimate remote support tool often used by businesses, antivirus programs do not detect it as malicious. But what scammers can do via remote access to your computer can be very dangerous and impact your finances and identity.
This same method of a disguised remote support tool has also been seen as a fake Social Security Statement, fake email from a lawyer, and will likely evolve into other methods of deceptive delivery.
👉 How to protect yourself:
- Never click unexpected links, even if they appear to come from someone you trust.
- If the email feels suspicious, call the person directly to confirm they really sent it.
Fake Invoice Scams (McAfee, Geek Squad, and More)
Another common scam involves fake invoices seemingly from big-name companies such as McAfee, Geek Squad, Norton or PayPal. These emails claim you’ve been charged for a subscription renewal and provide a phone number to call if you want to cancel.
Of course, the invoice is fake. If you call, scammers may trick you into giving them remote access to your computer or your credit card details.
👉 How to protect yourself:
- Legitimate companies don’t send invoices out of the blue for services you didn’t order.
- Check your bank account or official account page directly instead of trusting an email.
- Don’t call the number in the email—go to the company’s official website for real contact information.
Fake cloud storage notices
Unfortunately, cybercriminals have found ways to exploit the popularity of cloud services through phishing scams. A recent surge in email and text message scams involves messages that claim:
- Your cloud storage is full.
- Your cloud account is about to expire.
- You’ve exceeded your storage quota and must pay to continue accessing your files.
- Your files will be deleted.
These messages often include a link that leads to a fake login page or payment form, which can steal your login credentials or credit card information. Some variants will even try to sell you an alternative bogus cloud storage service. The scammers may even spoof legitimate services like Google, Apple, or Dropbox, making the messages look authentic.
Website CAPTCHA Scams
A new phishing scam that looks a lot like the CAPTCHA requests you might be used to seeing. Real CAPTCHAs give you image- or text-based tasks to prove you’re not a robot — something like typing letters and numbers exactly as they appear, or matching pictures of things like fire hydrants or traffic lights. Here’s how the fake CAPTCHA requests happen…and how you could wind up installing malware on your device.
You get an unexpected CAPTCHA request while browsing a website. The screen looks a lot like a regular CAPTCHA, asking you to verify you’re human. But the message says to type a series of commands — something like “Windows + R,” then “Ctrl + V,” and then “Enter”. The screen might say “security verification,” but you’re actually following the steps to paste and run hidden malware on your device. Once it’s there, scammers can quickly steal your email account login data, banking credentials, or any other information they can get access to.
How to Spot a Scam Message
Scammers rely on urgency, fear, or curiosity to get you to click. Before responding to any unexpected email, text, or phone call – even if it appears to come from someone you know – take a step back and look for these signs:
- Bogus addresses or phone numbers – Hover over (but don’t click) an email address or link to see where it really leads.
- Bad grammar and spelling mistakes – Billion-dollar corporations don’t send sloppy emails.
- Generic greetings – Messages that start with “Dear Customer” instead of your actual name are suspicious.
- Pressure to act quickly – “Act now or lose your account!” is a classic scam tactic.
- Think about the situation – Why would a friend send you something out of the blue? Why would you get an email from PayPal or McAfee if you don’t even have an account with them?
Use the AI Button in Your Browser to Help Identify Suspect Emails
Now there’s a built-in cybersecurity assistant right in your browser toolbar. Whether you use Gemini in Chrome or Copilot in Microsoft Edge, you can leverage sidebar AI to dissect a sketchy email in seconds. Here’s how to use it…
The Golden Rule: Don’t Click & Check the Source
Above all, never open unexpected email links or attachments. Downloaded files and attachments on Windows with “.exe” or “.msi” extension/suffix can be dangerous from an unverified or untrustworthy source. If something looks even a little off, call the person or company using a number you trust—not one displayed in the suspicious message.
Also, always pay close attention by checking the source of an unexpected email, text message or website. McAfee wouldn’t send you an email from an “@gmail.com” address, your bank wouldn’t send you a text from a standard 10 or 11-digit phone number, and you should never type your email login credentials into a website other than your official email provider’s site.
Read: Check the Source to Help Stop Phishing and Scams
Click here to view examples of the latest phishing and scams that we’re seeing.
Stay safe by staying informed
Scams are becoming more sophisticated, but with a little vigilance and continued education you can stay safe. When in doubt, remember: slow down, verify, and never click blindly.