Protecting Vermont Seniors from Tech Support Scams

In 2024, Vermont seniors lost $1,150,772 to tech support scams alone. These scams are among the most common and devastating forms of fraud targeting older adults. This guide will help you recognize, avoid, and report tech support scams.

Why Vermont Seniors Are Especially Vulnerable

Vermont has the second-oldest median age in the nation at 42.8 years, with nearly 21% of residents over 65. Our rural character creates unique risks:

  • Geographic isolation: Many Vermont seniors live in rural areas with limited access to in-person tech support, making phone and online “help” seem appealing
  • Limited broadband: Spotty internet in rural areas means seniors may be less familiar with online scam tactics
  • Trust culture: Vermont’s community-minded culture means seniors are more likely to trust callers who sound helpful
  • Winter isolation: Long winters keep seniors indoors and online, increasing exposure to scams

Recent Tech Support Scams Reported in Vermont

Burlington Area (2024): Scammers called seniors claiming to be from “Comcast Security,” stating their internet was compromised. Victims were charged $299-$499 for fake “protection plans.”

Rutland County (2024): Popup scams targeted seniors searching for local business websites. The popups mimicked Windows Defender and directed victims to call a fake Microsoft number.

NEK Region (2023): A scam ring specifically targeted seniors in the Northeast Kingdom, knowing limited local tech support made victims more vulnerable. Multiple seniors lost over $5,000 each.

How Tech Support Scams Target Vermont Seniors

Tech support scammers use several tactics to reach their victims:

  • Fake popup warnings – A frightening message appears on your screen claiming your computer is infected with a virus
  • Unsolicited phone calls – Someone calls claiming to be from Microsoft, Apple, or your internet provider
  • Phishing emails – Messages that appear to be from legitimate companies warning of security problems
  • Search engine ads – Fake tech support numbers that appear when you search for help

Warning Signs to Recognize

Watch for these red flags that indicate a tech support scam:

  • Unexpected popup saying “Your computer is infected” with a phone number to call
  • Caller claims to be from “Windows Support” or “Microsoft Security”
  • Request for remote access to your computer
  • Demand for payment in gift cards, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency
  • Pressure to act immediately or your computer will be “locked”
  • Threats that your personal information has been compromised

The Truth About Legitimate Tech Companies

Microsoft, Apple, and other legitimate tech companies will NEVER:

  • Call you unsolicited about computer problems
  • Send popup messages with phone numbers to call
  • Ask for remote access to fix a problem you did not report
  • Request payment in gift cards or cryptocurrency
  • Threaten to disable your computer if you do not pay

Vermont-Specific: Where to Get REAL Tech Help

Instead of trusting random callers, use these legitimate Vermont resources:

  • Your local library: Many Vermont libraries offer free tech help sessions for seniors
  • Vermont 211: Call 211 to find local senior technology assistance programs
  • Area Agency on Aging: Contact your regional AAA for referrals to trusted tech helpers
  • Local computer shops: Visit an established local business in person – never call numbers from popups
  • Community centers: Senior centers in Burlington, Montpelier, and Rutland offer regular tech help hours

How to Protect Yourself

Follow these steps to stay safe from tech support scams:

  1. Never call numbers from popup warnings – Close the browser window or restart your computer
  2. Hang up on unsolicited tech support calls – Do not engage with the caller
  3. Never give remote access to strangers – Only allow access if you initiated the support request with a known company
  4. Never pay with gift cards – No legitimate company accepts gift cards as payment
  5. Keep your software updated – Enable automatic updates for your operating system and antivirus
  6. Use reputable antivirus software – And only download it from official sources

If You See a Scary Popup

  1. Do not call the number displayed on the screen
  2. Do not click any buttons on the popup
  3. Press Ctrl+Alt+Delete (Windows) or Command+Q (Mac) to force close the browser
  4. If that does not work, hold the power button to turn off your computer
  5. Restart your computer – the popup should be gone
  6. Run a scan with your legitimate antivirus software

If You Have Been Targeted

If you gave remote access or payment to a tech support scammer:

  1. Disconnect from the internet immediately (unplug ethernet or turn off WiFi)
  2. Run a full antivirus scan to remove any malware they may have installed
  3. Change all your passwords – especially email, banking, and social media
  4. Contact your bank if you provided payment information
  5. Monitor your accounts for unauthorized transactions
  6. Consider a credit freeze if you shared personal information

Vermont Community Watch Approach

Vermont’s strong community spirit is our best defense. Here’s how to help protect your neighbors:

  • Check on elderly neighbors: Ask if they have received suspicious calls or seen scary popups
  • Share this information: Print this page for seniors who may not be online
  • Report scams together: Help victims report – many feel embarrassed and need support
  • Town meeting awareness: Bring up scam prevention at local gatherings

Report Tech Support Scams

Reporting helps protect other Vermont seniors:

Frequently Asked Questions – Vermont

Q: I live in a rural area with no local computer shop. What should I do?

A: Call your local library or Vermont 211. Many libraries offer remote tech help or can connect you with volunteers. Never trust unsolicited callers just because local help is scarce.

Q: The popup had a 802 area code. Does that mean it is local?

A: No. Scammers use “spoofing” technology to display any phone number they want, including Vermont area codes. A 802 number does not mean the caller is in Vermont.

Q: My grandchild usually helps with my computer but lives out of state. What should I do?

A: Call your grandchild directly at a number you know before taking any action. Scammers count on isolated seniors making quick decisions without checking with family first.

Free Training Available

Take our free online course to learn more about protecting yourself from tech support scams:

→ Start Tech Support Scam Awareness Training (Module 2)

← Back to all Vermont Senior Fraud Resources