SCAM ALERT

We have received several calls from people reporting that Microsoft has contacted them at home to inform them of a problem with their computer. Cybercriminals don't just send fraudulent email messages and set up fake websites. They might also call you on the telephone and claim to be from Microsoft. They might offer to help solve your computer problems or sell you a software license. Once they have access to your computer, they can do the following:

• Trick you into installing malicious software that could capture sensitive data, such as online banking user names and passwords. They might also then charge you to remove this software.
• Convince you to visit legitimate websites (like www.ammyy.com) to download software that will allow them to take control of your computer remotely and adjust settings and leave your computer vulnerable.
• Request credit card information so they can bill you for phony services.
• Direct you to fraudulent websites and ask you to enter credit card and other personal or financial information there.
• Neither Microsoft nor our partners make unsolicited phone calls (also known as cold calls) to charge you for computer security or software fixes.

If you have been called and already gave the individual access to your computer, it is recommended to have your computer checked and cleaned by a professional right away. It is also recommended to change computer password and online accounts.

Will Microsoft ever call you? There are some cases where Microsoft will work with your Internet service provider and call you to fix a malware-infected computer—such as during the recent cleanup effort begun in our botnet takedown actions. These calls will be made by someone with whom you can verify you already are a customer. You will never receive a legitimate call from Microsoft or our partners to charge you for computer fixes.

Report phone scams

Help Microsoft stop cybercriminals by reporting information about your phone scam.
http://support.microsoft.com/reportascam

In the United States, use the FTC Complaint Assistant form.
https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov/#crnt&panel1-1

For more on this scam, visit: https://www.microsoft.com/security/online-privacy/avoid-phone-scams.aspx

David Steele, Partner / Webmaster

djsteele@intradatech.com
570-321-7370