Pop-up ads have been a technique used by scammers for decades. By blocking the user’s access to their screen with annoying pop-ups, there is a higher chance the user will purposefully or accidentally click on the malicious advertisement. These pop-ups could be advertising software updates, products, or hot topic articles. But these scams are not entirely a thing of the past. It is essential to be cautious with any pop-ups as you browse today.
Now, scammers are taking their pop-ups to the big screen with smart TV pop-ups. Since many televisions are connected to the internet, scammers are creating pop-ups mimicking popular streaming services or other apps and claiming the user must pay their subscription fee or update their information. These pop-ups often include a website to visit or a phone number to call to fix the issue. This could lead to the scammer getting remote access to your TV, installing malware, or gaining access to your payment information and charging your card. Luckily, there are many ways you can avoid falling for these scams.
Quick Tips to Stay Safe
- Double-check the actual fees you have to pay on the official site.
- Don’t let a stranger control your device remotely.
- Verify the URL or phone number on the screen first.
