How the scam works
You purchase a new media player, virtual assistant or other tech device. It could be a Roku, Google Home, Alexa or any other device that needs to be activated after purchase. When you are ready to use it, you search for the customer support phone number. However, instead of getting the official website, you end up on a look-alike site with phony customer support information. You call that number, and you are told there is a new policy in place: All device users must now pay an activation fee. Reports on BBB Scam Tracker indicate people have been charged anywhere from $80 to $100 to “activate” their new device.
Scammers may ask for unusual forms of payment, such as pre-paid gift cards, or they may ask directly for your credit card number. Once payment is made, they may claim there was a problem and a second payment is needed. In some cases, they may “help” you come up with a new username and password, thereby gaining access to your device account. In any case, scammers hope to get away with your hard-earned money along with your personal information.
Protecting yourself
Scammers are skilled at creating look-alike websites with addresses that are spelled slightly differently than the official website’s address. Carefully double check the URL or go directly to the site listed in your device’s instruction booklet.
Use caution with sponsored links. Fake websites sometimes pop up in your web browser’s sponsored ad section and appear at the top of the search list. Be careful what you click on.
Never make a payment with prepaid debit or gift cards. Reputable companies will never ask you to wire money or pay with prepaid cards. Money sent this way cannot be recuperated.
Find tips to help you stay alert to scammers’ tactics at BBB.org/AvoidScams
