Tech Support Scam

The BBB alerts residents to Microsoft tech support scam

The Better Business Bureau is alerting consumers to a phone scam in which the caller claims to be from Microsoft. The caller offers to solve a consumer’s computer problems or sell him or her a software license, all in an effort to gain remote control access to the consumer’s computer. Recently, several consumers called BBB to report they received a phone call from a “Microsoft employee” who told her he had recognized a virus on her computer. From almost the instant one such phone conversation started, the consumer realized the call was not made with good intentions. The man identified himself as being from Microsoft tech support and said he had identified that my computer had a virus the consumer said. The scammer then directed the consumer to go to her computer and proceeded to give directions to ‘get rid of the virus.’ Thankfully the consumer works with computers on a daily basis, realized almost immediately that the directions being given were the same steps she follows when her IT department needs full, remote access to her computer. The consumer did not allow the caller to proceed any further. According to Microsoft, once these scammers have access to the computer they can install malicious software, steal personal information, take control of the computer remotely or direct consumers to fraudulent websites where they are asked to enter their credit card information. Microsoft’s Online Safety and Security Centre states that neither Microsoft nor its partners make unsolicited phone calls.

Don't Be fooled!

Here are some of the organizations that cybercriminals claim to be from:

-Windows Helpdesk

-Windows Service Center

-Microsoft Tech Support

-Microsoft Support

-Windows Technical Department Support Group

-Microsoft Research and Development Team (Microsoft R & D Team

The BBB advises consumers to follow these tips to protect themselves from scammers:

Install virus detection. To help protect your computer from viruses make sure you have virus detection software installed on your computer. This software can also help identify if a virus appears on your computer

Don’t trust cold calls. Never give out personal information, over the phone, to someone you don’t know. If the caller claims there is a security threat to your computer, hang up and call your computer company directly

Call Kinn Computers at 570-356-2969