Over the last few weeks, we’ve had a number of customers reach out to us after being impacted by a Microsoft phone scam. Victims of the scam receive a call from someone claiming to be from Microsoft technical support. The tech specialist walks you through a number of steps to “fix” something on your computer and may even request that you provide them with additional personal information. According to Microsoft, once the scammer has access to the PC, they can do any of 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 to 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.
Remember, Microsoft will never proactively reach out to you to provide unsolicited PC or technical support. Any communication with Microsoft must be initiated by you. If you do receive a call, please write down the phone number and contact local authorities.
For more information on phone scams and how to report them, visit Microsoft.com.