UPDATE (12/03/2014): All residents please be aware this scam has started AGAIN. I was contacted by one of our residents on Monday to advise that he was hit for just over $1000 to repair "problems" with his computer. The resident stated they were from Melbourne, but his bank confirmed the money went straight to India. Microsoft (Windows) does not remotely detect problems and call computer owners. See the original blog post below.
The telemarketing scam with callers, generally from India, claiming to work at a ‘Windows Technical Support Centre’ and that your computer has sent them a virus warning. They will then ask you to open a screen on your computer, showing background text scripting of an error or virus warning. The displayed text is part of the computer’s operating system, IT IS NOT not a sign of a virus infection.
The operator will try to sell you a ‘fix’ for the problem (getting your credit card details and selling you a virus program) or try to get ‘remote access’ to your computer (allowing them to install the virus program in your computer).
A major international ‘Windows Technical Support’ scam was closed down in October 2012, with the assistance of Australian law enforcement agencies.
Microsoft (the makers of the Windows system) does not call users unless a person has logged a service request. They have published information on their website at http://www.microsoft.com/security/online-privacy/avoid-phone-scams.aspx.
The Australian Government ‘Scamwatchers’ website has more information on these types of scams at http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/content/index.phtml/itemId/792165.
If you receive a call of this type, hang up. Do not give them any information or allow remote access to your computer.
Sergeant Andrew LAKE 6695
Operational Improvement, Police Headquarters, BRISBANE
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