Avast Subscription Scam - How to Protect Yourself

How the Scam Works

• The Fake Invoice: You receive an email stating your "Avast Security" or "Avast Premium" subscription has auto-renewed. Scammers often quote high amounts like $499.99 to trigger immediate worry.
• The Callback Trap: The message explicitly instructs you to call a customer service phone number within 24 hours if you wish to dispute or cancel the charge.
• The Payoff: If you call, a fake technician will ask for your credit card details, request your bank login info, or try to convince you to download remote desktop software to "help" you secure a refund.

Red Flags to Look For

• Sender Address: Genuine emails will always come from an official domain like @avast.com. Scammers use free accounts like Gmail or lookalike domains.
• Generic Greetings: The message usually says "Dear Customer" instead of using your actual name.
• Urgent Threats: The email demands action within a very tight window to prevent funds from leaving your account.
• Outdated Branding: Fraudulent emails often use low-quality or old company logos.

What to Do Next

1. If You Just Received the Email

• Do not reply to the message or call any number listed inside it.
• Do not click any links or open any attached files.
• Check your actual bank or credit card statements directly; you will see that no such transaction has taken place.
• Forward the malicious email to spam@avast.com to alert their security team.

2. If You Already Gave Out Information

• Contact Your Bank: Call your financial institution immediately using the number on the back of your card to freeze your accounts or dispute any actual fraudulent withdrawals.
• Remove Remote Access: Uninstall any applications (like AnyDesk or TeamViewer) that the scammers instructed you to download.
• Update Passwords: Change your email and online banking passwords using a secure device.

If you are ever uncertain about a charge, bypass the email entirely and check your status by logging directly into the official Avast Account Portal.