Other LanguagesTech scammers have been around for years and while some companies are caught, new ones continually pop up claiming to be popular and trusted software companies.
The most recent scammers claim to be from Microsoft and say they are calling because they’ve detected harmful viruses or malware on your PC. These scammers will then ask you to perform a series of tasks that allow cyber criminals to gain remote access to your computer and the personal data stored on it. They may also try and convince you to purchase phony software updates and request payment by credit card over the phone.
If you receive a phone call of this nature, hang-up immediately. Never give control of your computer or personal information to someone who calls you.
If you suspect that you have been victimized:
1) Have a reputable computer technician remove any software that may have been added to your computer,
2) Change all of your passwords,
3) Contact your financial institution and monitor all of your bank and credit card activity, and
4) Visit the FTC’s website to file a complaint.