(NORTHERN BRUCE PENINSULA, ON) –On March 4, 2016, the Bruce Peninsula Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) received a call from a victim who reported to have lost approximately $4,000.00 from the Microsoft scam.
The victim told police they were contacted via telephone from a male stating he worked for Microsoft and called to tell them their computer needed immediate virus protection. The victim gave the caller access to their home computer remotely and purchased virus protection. Over the past couple of years, the victim was contacted several times to update the virus protection from “Microsoft.” The victim estimates they have lost approximately $4000 and now dealing with threatening phone calls as the “company,” is demanding a larger payment of $3, 500.00. The victim has been advised since the most recent payment has been refused, they will be sued for $50, 000.00. The victim was informed by the fraudster, in addition to being sued; guns have been purchased on-line from their Internet Protocol address (I.P. address). In response to the threats, the victim reviewed their bank accounts and observed irregular activity; with funds being transferred from one account to another. The victim contacted Police and has taken the necessary steps to secure their accounts.
The Bruce Peninsula OPP is urging the public to talk to friends and family about the various frauds and to not give any personal information over the phone or through your computer. If you get one of these calls or any other suspicious calls, HANG UP! Don’t tell them your personal information, credit card or banking information.
If you or someone you know suspect they’ve been a victim of fraud, contact the Bruce Peninsula OPP at 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or submit a secure web-tip at www.crimestoppersgb.ca, where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000.
For information on how to spot a scam and make sure you do not become a victim, please go to www.opp.ca and click on Fraud Prevention on the Resources page.
“Recognize, Reject and Report Fraud!”