Have you, or has someone you know, received a call from a “Microsoft representative”? Did this person inform you that your computer has been infected with a virus or some other problem? Did he or she ask you to turn on your computer, and allow them to walk you through the process to correct the problem?
If so, you have been duped, along with over three million other people. That “correction process” is actually a process to install a harmful virus on your computer and steal your data. Con artists have been running the “Microsoft scam”, and have so far stolen over one and a half billion dollars from unsuspecting victims. These scammers are quite convincing, and seem sincere. It’s no wonder millions of people have fallen for the ploy!
If you haven’t been the recipient of such a call, be on guard: It might be coming. Here’s what you need to know, in order to protect yourself from this type of fraud:
- Microsoft does not make unsolicited phone calls, nor do any of their partners.
- Your cable or internet network also will not call you about problems on your computer.
- If there is a problem with your computer, you will likely be the first to notice it. More specifically, your anti-virus program should alert you. Microsoft does not monitor these situations and alert customers.
- If you receive a phone call about a problem with your computer, it is always a scam. Do not give the caller any personal information, and hang up the phone immediately.
Following the directions given by phone scammers will result in a virus being installed on your computer. From there, scammers can steal personal information, such as bank account passwords, and bilk you out of hundreds or thousands of dollars. If you’re concerned about a possible breach in your computer system, give us a call at 888-RING-MY-TECH. We can show you how to check for viruses and malware in your current system, and help you set up security measures to prevent further problems.
