Lincoln Computer Club Forum

[Lynn]

Cold Calls - Fake PC & Internet Support

Following the article in last months e-newsletter, (http://www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/section.asp?catId=28230&docId=85200) Trading Standards is still receiving complaints about cold calls from companies claiming to have detected that your computer is running slowly because of an infection by some sort of virus, 'trojan' or malware....

These cold callers usually claim to have been given your number by Microsoft or your Internet Service Provider (ISP) and offer to resolve the problem by remotely accessing your computer. By doing this, they could gain access to your personal information such as passwords, bank details and emails. In some cases, complainants have paid large sums approaching £200 for these ‘services’.

We’ve also received claims that, without you knowing, malicious infections can be installed on your computer which will continue to monitor your internet usage and personal details. On top of this some of these cold callers are asking for payment by credit/debit card for their services.

Remember:

•These cold callers need your help to get remote access to your PC. Don’t give it to them!
Microsoft do not cold call customers!