(PERTH COUNTY, ON) The Perth County OPP has investigated a number of incidents in which Perth County residents received calls from computer tech. companies advising them their computer had viruses and required immediate protection. Some residents have allowed remote access to their computers while others have provided credit card numbers to the caller so they would install spy ware protection.
On Wednesday August 17, 2011 a Mitchell resident received an unsolicited call representing a computer repair company. The resident was told that her computer had a virus and it needed to be fixed. She allowed the company access to her computer and was told that she needed to install a spy ware program which would eliminate the virus. She was told that this would cost $129 and all she needed to do was forward her credit card number to allow them to install the program. The resident provided the card number but after hanging up the phone believed she was scammed.
The Perth County OPP wants to advise the public that nearly all the calls they have investigated were fraudulent solicitations and were an attempt to allow remote access to the computer of the victim, or obtain payment for software and repair services offered. In most cases the company names sounded legitimate such as Microsoft tech. support or On Line PC care. The caller was convincing and expressed that this was an urgent matter.
Residents should be aware of risks attached to remote access of their computers. Key loggers or other malicious software could be installed to capture sensitive data such as passwords, online banking user names, bank account information and other identity information. If you receive a similar type call, be cautious since it is most likely a scam. If you are unsure about the health of your computer, contact a legitimate repair shop or computer company; $129 will go a long way to cover installation of proper protection programs and a clean-up of your computer.
If you require more information on frauds and scams you can contact the Canadian Anti Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or at www.anifraudcentre.ca
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