This week’s newsletter will discuss a pop-up that is visible on your computer screen and it tells you that Microsoft has locked your computer due to an infection and you need to call the number to repair the infections. This is not true – it’s a SCAM! Sample screen shots can look like this:
These pop-up scams are designed to scare the computer user into immediately calling the number on the screen for tech support. This has become an increasing common scam tactic over the past few years. The scams may involve web pages with screen shots of fake Microsoft (Windows) Support messages, fake reports of suspicious activity, fake warnings of malware found on your computer, and the list goes on.
However, once you call the number and grant remote access to the “technicians”, they will install a “remote access trojan” in order to steal passwords and other sensitive personal information which could then be used to access bank information or steal a person’s identity. You could be informed that it will cost you over $600 to clean your computer.
So the solution is: NEVER call the number on the screen!
FACT: Microsoft will never send you a message to ask you to call Tech Support
If you get this pop-up on your computer, please follow these steps and then call your trusted IT provider. Directions for a PC:
Close the browser window where the message is visible. You can press the ALT key and the F4 key to close the window. If that does not work, open Task Manager (press the CTRL, SHIFT, and ESC keys).
Look for the “Processes” tab and then look for the browser (i.e. Chrome, Firefox, etc.).
Left click on the browser name (i.e. Chrome) and left click on the END Task button)
When you re-open your browser, do not choose the option to “Restore Pages”.
Your trusted IT Provider can run additional scans and remove any tell-tale indications on your computer.
However, if you did call the number on the screen, then you have big problems. Once the “technician” connects to your computer, in the background they will implant a Trojan virus. Once activated remotely, it will lock your computer requiring a passcode. It is very unlikely that the technician will give you the code, and if they do, the Trojan is still implanted on your computer.
There is a 8 step process that needs to be performed to clean your computer. This should only be performed by a trusted IT Professional.
For more information, please visit this website from Microsoft: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/wdsi/threats/support-scams
The benefit of working with an IT Professional allows you to sleep well at night, as you have a knowledgeable and experienced person that will protect your computer systems. Being aware of what you are clicking on and to whom you are calling are as important as living your life. For peace of mind, rely on your IT professional
Elite Networking & Consulting offers their clients a cloud-based software product that provides a high-end security solution that stops infections from attacking your data, including an Anti-Ransomware module that stops this horrible infection from attacking your computer. This is the benefit of working with an IT Professional.
If you would like additional information on the Security Solution that is offered by Elite Networking & Consulting, please either call us at 855-767-9685, ext. 700 or send an email to service1@elite-nac.com.
Source: Elite Networking & Consulting
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