This is the most commonly used scam when it comes to computers not working. Most people are not computer literate and it often happens that their machine or laptop has a minor fault: a wrong setting, unplugged cable, cache not cleared, etc.

When the victim takes the computer to the “doctor”, the “fixer” will claim the problem is more complex, depending on how well he reads the victim’s naivety. In some cases, the scammers even suggest the PC is irreparably damaged and the victim needs a new one (which of course, he could buy from him).

How to avoid: always ask for a second opinion.