06/10/2018
Beware of computer takeover scams
The scammer will call, claiming to be from a well known Computer company or internet sevice provider, saying that your computer has been hit with a virus and that they can remove it for you remotely DO NOT LET ANYONE YOU DON'T KNOW HAVE REMOTE ACCESS TO YOUR PC!
How the scam works
Once the victim has handed over remote control of their computer, the fraudster will tell the victim that they may be entitled to compensation, or put them through to a supervisor who will appear to make an offer of compensation.
The scammer will say that they are sending the money and ask the victim to log into their bank account to check that it has arrived.
But the fraudsters will put up a fake screen to make it appear that the money has arrived. Meanwhile they will be working away in the background to empty your bank account.
They may ask for a bank passcode to be sent by text or generated by a card reader, which they will claim is necessary in order to process the refund. In reality, they need this to set themselves up as a new payee from your bank account and take your money.
[Related story: Common online and email scams to beware of]
How to protect yourself
The FFA recommends following these steps to ensure you aren’t duped by this version of the scam:
be wary of any unsolicited approaches by phone offering a refund;
avoid letting someone you do not know have access to your computer, especially remotely;
do not long onto your bank account while someone else has control of your computer;
do not share one-time passcodes or card reader codes with anyone;
do not share your Pin or online banking password, even by tapping them into a telephone keypad.
Katy Worobec, director of FFA, said that this scam is another example of the cunning tricks fraudsters will use to get their hands on your money.
She added: “You should never let someone else have access to your computer remotely, especially if they have contacted you via an unsolicited phone call. If you are in doubt, then call the organisation back on a number you trust; if they are legitimate they will understand
