42°
This scam starts when the victim is contacted by someone they don’t know who claims to work for Microsoft or another computer company. The Sheriff's Office said there were reports of similar "computer virus" scams elsewhere in the Hudson Valley.
The victim may be contacted either by phone or via the computer -- which may display a pop-up window telling them their computer has a virus and to call Microsoft at the number provided.
The suspect will then tell the victim that they can fix the computer for a fee and then seeks credit card or other personal information.
In most cases, there was never a virus or anything wrong with the victim’s computer. Once money is exchanged, the suspect is never heard from again.
In some instances, suspects hacked into the victims' computers and controlled them remotely; according to the Sheriff's Office.
This is another way to convince a victim they are "legitimate and is also very dangerous because they now have access to everything on" the computer, according to the Sheriff's Office.
This Mocrosoft scam is similar to the FBI MoneyPak virus in which the virus locks the victim’s computer and tells them to send money to unlock it.
The Sheriff’s Office offered these tips to help avoid being victimized:
-- If someone contacts you unsolicited and out-of-the blue, it is likely a scam.
-- If you are contacted by someone claiming to work for Microsoft or another company, tell them you need to verify their employment. Hang up and research their phone number. Never call the number a suspect gave you.
-- Do not give credit card details, personal information or passwords until you have verified who they work for and that they are legitimate.
-- Don’t panic. The scams work when they prey on people using fear, emotion and/or an urgent situation they say needs to be fixed immediately.
If you suspect you may be a victim of this or another scam, contact the Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office at 845-486-3800.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Putnam and receive free news updates.
