scam Archives

Tech Optimizer

June 12, 2026

Fake verification pages are stealing Steam accounts from players

Online gamers are being warned about a scam targeting Steam accounts through counterfeit FACEIT verification pages that look authentic. These fraudulent sites feature official branding and functional links, tricking users into entering their passwords. The scam is particularly aimed at FACEIT players, as it exploits the connection between FACEIT and Steam, where players link their accounts. The scam starts with a website mimicking an official FACEIT page, claiming to offer free identity verification. Scammers use lookalike URLs, such as faceit-discord.com and faceit-clubs-verify.com, to deceive users. The site may display subtle errors, like conflicting copyright dates, and encourages users to click a “Sign in through Steam” button, which leads to a fake login window designed to steal user credentials. To protect against this scam, users should verify the website address, be cautious of blurry QR codes, treat urgent messages as suspicious, navigate directly to official sites, and consider using tools like Malwarebytes Browser Guard. If users have already entered their details, they should change their Steam password, enable Steam Guard, and check for unauthorized activity. The scam's effectiveness lies in its convincing presentation and the use of Browser-in-the-Browser attacks, which manipulate the perceived address bar.

AppWizard

June 11, 2026

Steam’s tired of gift card scams, so it’s killing them off for good

Valve will stop restocking Steam gift cards at retail locations due to increasing scams targeting consumers, particularly the elderly. The company estimates that these cards will no longer be available by the end of 2026, although unspent cards can still be redeemed after that date. Despite the discontinuation, Valve's guest checkout feature will allow digital gifting for gaming experiences.

Tech Optimizer

June 9, 2026

Don’t get victimized by this updated version of the McAfee email scam

Cybercriminals are sending fraudulent McAfee renewal notices claiming users owe money for antivirus subscriptions they never purchased. These emails create a sense of urgency, warning that devices are unprotected or that charges will be processed automatically. The scams have become more sophisticated, using AI-generated emails and counterfeit invoices to appear credible. Although Microsoft is the most impersonated company, McAfee scams are on the rise, featuring messages about expiring or automatically renewed subscriptions costing hundreds of dollars. Victims are often misled into contacting scammers posing as customer-service agents, who may request sensitive information or control over their devices. McAfee advises customers to verify subscription status through their official website and not to respond to unsolicited emails. Warning signs of these scams include suspicious sender addresses, generic greetings, grammatical errors, unusually large charges, and urgent demands for action. The Federal Trade Commission warns consumers about tech-support and antivirus scams, urging them to report phishing emails and monitor accounts for unauthorized activity.

Tech Optimizer

June 9, 2026

I trusted Malwarebytes to secure my PC for a month

Malwarebytes is an effective antivirus solution that provides robust protection against cyber threats, identified and blocked threats efficiently during usage. The software features a user-friendly interface with a Dashboard that includes tools such as a system scanner, VPN, and Trusted Advisor, which assesses system security. The Privacy, Identity, Tools, and Scam Guard sections offer additional functionalities, including monitoring for data breaches and identifying fraudulent emails. Malwarebytes operates with minimal CPU resource usage while effectively blocking malware and phishing attempts. An independent evaluation by MRG Effitas confirmed its high performance, earning a Level 1 certification. Pricing for Malwarebytes Premium starts at an annual fee for the Standard plan, with additional options available.

Tech Optimizer

June 8, 2026

I trusted Malwarebytes to secure my PC for a month

Malwarebytes is a cybersecurity solution that provides robust antivirus protection and features like a system scanner, VPN, and Trusted Advisor for security assessment. The installation process is simple, and users can navigate its intuitive interface easily. Trusted Advisor helped improve a user's security score from 49 to 83 by suggesting enhancements. The software includes sections for Privacy, Identity, Tools, and Scam Guard, which analyzes suspicious emails and screenshots. During testing, Scam Guard successfully identified a fraudulent email. Malwarebytes operates in the background with minimal CPU usage, effectively blocking threats and providing a detailed history of blocked malware. An independent evaluation by MRG Effitas awarded Malwarebytes a Level 1 certification for its performance. Pricing for Malwarebytes starts at an annual rate for the Standard plan, with additional options available for families and small businesses. It is recommended for its comprehensive protection compared to typical antivirus solutions.

Tech Optimizer

June 5, 2026

This VPN + Antivirus Bundle Just Dropped to $3/mo: Get Full Protection for Cents

VPNs focus on online privacy, while antivirus software protects devices from threats. NordVPN combines these services, offering a comprehensive solution at competitive prices. The Basic plan costs .99 per month, while the Plus plan is available for .59 per month with a 76% discount and includes three free months with a two-year commitment. The Plus plan features Threat Protection Pro, which blocks ads, trackers, and malicious URLs, and offers call protection for iOS and Android users. The Complete plan costs .99 per month and includes scam call protection, 1 GB of NordLocker, and dark web monitoring. The Prime plan, priced at .99 per month, includes Coveron for identity theft protection. All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

AppWizard

June 3, 2026

Australia warns of crypto investment scams on messaging apps

Australia's financial regulatory authority, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), has issued a cautionary note about a rise in investment scams that exploit messaging apps and social media, particularly targeting younger individuals. These scams often start with enticing ads on social media promoting stock trading tips, leading victims to messaging apps where they are misled into thinking they are receiving legitimate investment advice from impersonated figures. Victims are then directed to counterfeit digital asset trading platforms, resulting in lost funds and additional withdrawal fees. Research from Moneysmart reveals that 23% of Australians aged 18 to 28 own digital assets, with 66% taking a speculative approach to investing, and 29% influenced by social media personalities. Additionally, 72% of Gen Z respondents encountered social media ads for digital assets, and 41% were approached to invest in cryptocurrencies. ASIC has proposed measures to mitigate risks, including avoiding sharing personal information from social media, verifying investment platforms through AUSTRAC, and acting quickly if something seems suspicious. The Australian Parliament passed a digital asset framework bill in April requiring digital asset platforms to obtain an Australian Financial Services License (AFSL) within a year to comply with new regulations.

BetaBeacon

June 3, 2026

Fake GTA 6, real malware: the new scam targeting Windows and Android

Attackers create fake GTA 6 beta scams that install trojans on machines, stealing credentials and mining cryptocurrency. Gamers' anticipation for highly anticipated games makes them vulnerable to these scams. NordVPN's antivirus can intercept these files and protect users from phishing sites impersonating gaming platforms. NordVPN's Premium plan includes VPN and antivirus for .85/month. NordVPN's antivirus works well on Windows and macOS, but is limited on mobile versions. The plan comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

AppWizard

June 2, 2026

Google Phone app rolling out Android fake call detection that uses RCS

Phone by Google is introducing a fake call detection feature to protect Android users from impersonation scams that use AI-powered deepfake technology. This feature requires both parties to use Android devices with the Phone by Google app, Google Messages, and Google Contacts. It works by sending a silent confirmation signal to verify the legitimacy of a call. If an impersonation attempt is detected, the user's phone will check with the actual contact's device, and if the real device indicates that it is not making a call, a warning will appear on the user's screen. The feature will roll out globally for Android 12+ devices, starting with Pixel phones, and will be enabled by default. The underlying RCS technology may also be adopted by other apps and manufacturers.

AppWizard

May 31, 2026

Star Citizen’s single-player component is in the ‘closing stages’ of development according to Chris Roberts, as rumours of another Squadron 42 delay circulate

Star Citizen has surpassed billion in player funding. The single-player component, Squadron 42, is reportedly in the "closing stages" of development, according to Chris Roberts. It entered a beta phase earlier this year, but concerns about its performance have led sources to suggest a release date in 2027. There is speculation that Squadron 42 may be showcased at this year's Summer Games Fest, based on hints from a senior game designer.