Raju Aguilar

Getting an email from Raju Aguilar claiming your antivirus software needs renewal for $284.40 is a scare tactic! Here's what you can do to protect yourself from this scam and similar antivirus renewal scams:

1. Don't Respond to the Email: These scam emails often try to pressure you into calling a phone number or clicking a link. Don't respond to the email or engage with the scammer in any way.

2. Check Your Antivirus Software Directly: The safest way to check your antivirus renewal status is to open your antivirus software itself. Most programs will have a clear notification or setting that indicates when renewal is necessary.

3. Verify Renewal Price: Legitimate antivirus software renewals typically cost around $30-$80 per year, depending on the program and features. A price of $284.40 is an obvious red flag.

4. Beware of Scare Tactics: Scam emails often use scare tactics like claiming your computer is at risk or your data is unprotected if you don't renew immediately. Don't be pressured into making a rushed decision.

5. Report the Scam: Report the scam email to your email provider and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/. Reporting helps raise awareness and protect others from falling victim.

Here's a unique tip to help you avoid antivirus renewal scams altogether:

• Schedule Renewal Reminders: Instead of relying on emails from unknown senders, set calendar reminders or notifications within your antivirus software to remind you when renewal is approaching. This way, you can proactively check renewal options directly from your software provider's website.

Why is this tip important? By taking charge of your renewal schedule, you avoid the urgency and confusion created by scam emails. You can research renewal options on your own terms, ensuring you get the best price and avoid falling victim to fake renewal notices.

Additional Tips for Avoiding Antivirus Renewal Scams:

• Recognize Legitimate Sender: Legitimate renewal notices will come directly from your antivirus software provider, not from a random email address like rajuaguilar270@gmail.com.
• Beware of Generic Greetings: Scam emails often use generic greetings like "Dear Customer" instead of your actual name.
• Don't Click on Links: Don't click on links or download attachments in suspicious emails. These could lead to malware infection or phishing websites designed to steal your personal information.
• Use Strong Passwords: Use strong, unique passwords for all your online accounts, including your antivirus software.

By following these tips and being cautious of unsolicited emails about software renewal, you can protect yourself from falling victim to scams like Raju Aguilar's in the future. Remember, if an email creates a sense of urgency or uses scare tactics, it's best to be suspicious and verify the information directly with the software provider.