Scam Phone Calls

Please be aware of a recent article that I have found that contains useful information about what can be a scam technique via the telephone relating to your computer. It relates to computer security, an issue that most of us who use computers can have worries about due to the improving technologies available. As always, the best and most effective advice we can offer is never be drawn in to buying any goods and services from the telephone. If people have concerns about their computer security or how their system is operating it is a better idea to get advice from a shop/specialist that you source yourself. By doing this you can compare quotes, reviews and take recommendations from friends and family and aren't pressured into an on the spot decision from someone you do not know via the phone.

Regards

Home Watch Desk



Scammers Promoting Rogue Anti-Virus Through Phone Calls
Malware purveyors seem to be increasing their use of telephones for malicious purposes, which resulted in increased reports pouring in from the UK of cold phone calls to trick people into downloading fake anti-virus products.

In past few weeks, some people got dire warnings that their computer systems are infected with malware that can be eliminated with only some clicks of the mouse. On July 2, 2010, antivirus vendor ESET UK, mentioning the increase in such calls, advised Internet users to remain cautious.

While the pitches differ, they usually involve a person who sounds as a professional calling from some telephone center. He warns the user on the other end that malware has been discovered on his system which is now infecting other PCs.

For sceptical users, the person may ask to open Windows event viewer for proof of infection. Ultimately, the user is asked to provide the caller remote access to his computer through logmein123.com or some other service. Thus, the scammers will implant fake anti-virus software as well as other malware which is too difficult to get rid of.

The scammers are fearless when potential victims tell a stranger calling them from an anonymous place that they don't need their help.

Just few days back, people living in Bridport (England) got a cold call from a person claiming to be from some reputed company like Microsoft, Symantec or Norton. The receivers were informed that their computer has been infected by a nasty virus and that it is now sending that virus to others through the Internet. They are told that it can be easily removed and thus, they are tricked into allowing the scammers remote access to their PCs. They are then bombarded with several technical jargon as well as complex procedures.

Then the receivers are asked for the payment details through a card and the victim is asked for around £180 to eliminate the virus.

According to security experts, this kind of scam has been prevailing for more than 12 months, but they know very little about those behind the calls, except the domain names - go4saling.com, supportonclick.com and metupport.com.