TECHNOLOGY has revolutionised how business is conducted, communicated, and interacted, making people’s lives easier, more efficient, and more productive. However, with the rise of technology comes an increase in technology-related crimes and computer scams.

This is according to the President of STARR Computer, Mike Mohan, who noted that some individuals and a few businesses are also preying on consumers by selling refurbished computers in and out of Guyana.

He explained that “computer scams” refer to any illegal activity that involves the use of a computer or the internet. These scams can take various forms, including phishing, malware and spyware, etc.
These scams aim to deceive individuals or businesses into providing sensitive information or financial resources.

“As more natural resources, opportunities, and incentives become abundant in Guyana, many well intentioned international investors will be attracted. Simultaneously, many crooked scammers with bad intentions will be seeking their fortunes through unscrupulous means. We will begin to see more online imposters, investment scammers, real estate deceivers, romance cheaters, technology tricksters, natural disaster swindlers, amongst others. Consequently, the time has come for every Guyanese to constantly be on the alert and start paying special attention to all new opportunities resurrecting during this new era,” Mr. Mohan explained.

Mohan also added that some of the most common IT hardware scams involve selling refurbished computers and IT equipment. It is another scam if a customer is misled into purchasing a reconditioned or cloned IT product or pirated software as a new and original item.

Refurbished computers, he explained, have been previously owned, returned to their original reseller or manufacturer as a trade-in or due to defects, and then reconditioned for resale. These computers are usually sold at a lower price than brand-new computers with minimal or no warranty. And it often takes a while for new users to recognise that they got scammed.

But not all refurbished computers are created equal. Some individuals and businesses involved in selling refurbished computers engage in fraudulent activities. They may sell computers that have not been properly refurbished or may misrepresent the condition of the computer. In some cases, the scammers may even resell stolen computers. The best advice is to purchase your IT equipment from reputable electronic stores that carry the manufacturers’ authorisation and warranties.

Mohan noted that individuals and businesses involved in computer scams operate online and offline. They may create fake websites, send phishing emails, or advertise on social media. They may also sell refurbished computers in person or through online marketplaces.

The consequences of falling victim to a computer scam can be devastating. Individuals and businesses may lose money, sensitive information, or even their entire computer system. In addition, these scams can damage the reputation of legitimate businesses and deter individuals from engaging in online activities.

“To protect themselves from computer scams, individuals and businesses should take several precautions. They should only purchase computers and IT equipment from reputable sellers and should research the seller before making a purchase. They should also use license software to keep their application updated, and strong passwords and data security protection to avoid data infiltration by hackers. And avoid clicking on suspicious links or emails from unknown sites,” Mr. Mohan noted.

“Scammers today are as innovative as genuine innovators. They target their victims through many standard marketing pathways from voice calls to postal letters and text messages to fake emails. And when that fails, they show up at your front door unexpectedly. Today from the comfort of their executive office, they use artificial intelligence through your IT devices to learn your habits to target you and your family. Therefore, we must all do our own due diligence before parting with our hard-earned resources,” Mohan underscored.

Mohan warned that persons should be skeptical about ‘free product offerings’ or ‘get rich quick’ opportunities that seem too good to be true. “If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Never cash a check for someone you don’t know. Never click a link or download an attachment from someone you don’t know. Don’t be pressured to act immediately with an emotional offer whether directly, phone call, or email.

And the list goes on. Soon scammers will pose as an employee from a familiar organisations seeking a side job by telling you there’s a problem that needs immediate attention for an off-record discounted price which may often come with a deceptive motive,” the STARR Computer President highlighted.

He emphasised that high-level white-colour criminals will even blackmail victims and seek payments via bitcoin, prepaid debit cards and digital currencies. “These organised criminals often persuade victims to share their personal bank information, such as their bank account number, verification code, or PIN. Always remember, if you authorise a fund transfer or send money to a scammer, there is often little anyone can do to help get your money back.

As technology continues to shape people’s lives and the way they conduct business, Mr. Mohan said by taking the necessary precautions, individuals and businesses can protect themselves and prevent these fraudulent activities from reoccurring. “It is imperative that we always do our due diligence before parting with our hard-earned resources.”