Householders have reported receiving unexpected phone calls from a business with an 0161 Manchester area code. The caller initially claims to represent Microsoft although some consumers have reported that they sometimes withdraw the claim, later in the conversation.
The callers claim to be phoning to fix (an in reality), non-existent 'slow computer' problem and request remote access to the residents computer. The callers, who use a variety of names including: Frank Morrison, David Watson, Steve and Charlie Brown claim the fix will be free but later demand several hundred pounds after doing little or nothing to the computer.
This is a scam.
Awareness of these scams is key to combating them.
- Microsoft do not make unsolicited (unexpected) phone calls to consumers.
- Never allow anyone you don't know or trust to take control of your PC.
- Never download any software on to your PC if you are not certain what it does, where it comes from and that it is safe.
- Never give your credit or debit card number to anyone who you receive an unsolicited call from - they could be criminals and could steal your card details.
- If you do think there is some thing wrong with your PC contact a local repair service and go on recommendation.
- For information on how to protect your PC from viruses etc. visit: www.getsafeonline.org
No comments:
Post a Comment