BEWARE OF SCAMMERS CLAIMING THEY ARE FROM MICROSOFT

BEWARE OF SCAMMERS CLAIMING THEY ARE FROM MICROSOFT



Unsuspecting computer users across the globe are falling victim to a widespread scam that infects computers and steals content directly from your harddrive.



The fraudsters, who speak with a strong sub-continent accent and sound like they are calling from overseas, call random numbers from the phone book, and claim that represent Microsoft.



Their spiel is convincing and goes something like this:



"Hello. My name is David/John/Peter. I am calling from Microsoft to advise you that your computer has been infected by Trojan Horses, is sending viruses across the internet and your computer is in danger of crashing."



Panic – could this be true?



David: If you right click on My Computer, click on Manage and then go to event viewer and then applications and then scroll down the page you will see Red and Yellow warning indicators. These will show you that you have a badly infected computer. I am calling from Microsoft and can tell you how to fix it."



Ok. Help me!



David: Log onto Internet Explorer and type in (dodgy company .com.au) and then click Allow Access and type in LETMEIN123.



David continues: We’re going to solve the issues on your computer and clear all the viruses and malware. In order to stop this happening again we need to upload some protection onto your computer. It will only cost (insert what ever number you like!)



At which point not only have they stolen all the information they need from your computer, they’ve forced you to hand over cash to fix a problem that never existed in the first place.



Internet chat forums are abuzz with details of the scam. Victims from USA, UK and Australia are falling for the scary spiel in large numbers.



Here’s how to avoid the trap:



Firstly, Microsoft will not call you at home. If someone claims to be from Microsoft ask for a return name and number and then contact your local Microsoft office to verify their credentials.



Even though they will have your name, number and details of the operating program you use, do not believe they have gained this information legitimately.



Secondly, never allow anyone access to your computer unless they are your trusted IT contact.



Thirdly, don’t pay someone to install a fix. Purchase a decent anti-virus protection to install on your computer.



Fourth, if you’ve read all of the above, and know what you are doing then by all means have some fun, string them along, waste their time, or blow a loud whistle in their ear.



Nikki Cripps is the owner and operator of Words for Websites a specialist online content service for website owners around the world. Words for Websites operates from Sydney, Australia. Nikki has more than 20 years experience as a writer, journalist, public relations consultant and website marketer.