Victim is contacted by someone claiming they are from a well-known computer or software company and a virus has been detected on the victim’s computer or they have noticed that the computer is slow.

The victim is advised that the virus can be removed and the computer protected.   They can advise that they will have a look and fix it for you and when they are remoted on they will look for information re your online banking, request personal information etc. Or for a small fee with a payment by either credit card or a money transfer they will provide security checks or software. In reality, there was no problem with the computer and the victim has just lost the money they sent for the protection or the scammer has your personal or bank information.

What are some of the reasons scammers use to gain ‘remote access’ to devices?

Some of the reasons provided include:

• A virus infection harming others on the network
• A free assessment to upgrade your operating system
• Help checking your computer’s security
• The disconnection of your internet if you do not give access
• Problems with your router or internet connections

At times these scammers may also reach out using ‘pop up’ messages on your screen instead of calling on the phone.

The scammers may be trying to

• Get your online banking details, or other money transfer service details
• Get you to pay for a fake security check or service contract
• Get your credit card details, or ask you to make payment another way (for example, gift cards like Prezzy Cards)
• Request personal information such as copies of passports or drivers licenses that they can use for identity fraud

What you can do:

• Politely say no thanks and hang up
• Don’t engage in a conversation, try to ‘trick’ the scammer or tell them off

If you’re unsure whether it is a scammer or a legitimate organisation, hang up and call the organisation using the official helpline number