Computer Scam warning
Written by admin on March 26, 2012
Police would like to issue a warning to residents regarding a scam which is currently circulating the area.
The potential victim receives a telephone call from an individual claiming to be from Microsoft or from an anti virus company and state that they are aware of a virus on your computer and that they will assist you in removing it for a fee.
The individual then asks you to log onto your computer and gives you various codes and information to type into your computer under the guise that this will remove the virus and they thereafter ask for banking details to obtain payment.
Crime reduction officer Constable Clark Logie states. “As with any scam it is important that individuals do not give out any personal or banking details.”
“If individuals receive a phone call of this nature I would recommend they terminate the call, neither internet providers, anti virus companies nor computer companies carry out their business in this way.”
“In order to protect your computer, individuals should ensure they keep their anti virus software up to date and do not give out any passwords. If you have any concerns regarding your computer, contact your internet service provider or a recognised computer company.”
Anyone seeking further security advice is asked to contact their local crime reduction officer on 0845 600 5701.
Melinda Ross On March 30, 2012 at 6:12 am
This is similar to the scam complaint I just read posted at Callercenter.com. Scam artists work by posing as a technical support representative and cause the victim to panic by putting up a PC virus story which requires immediate resolution. But instead of fixing the problem, the scam artists might actually install malwares on the PC and get the victim to pay to remove it or steal sensitive data stored in the PC.
The authorities encourages everybody to be cautious about such calls and if you get a call like that, hang up.