Phone calls about computers are a scam
The Yukon RCMP have issued a warning about a computer scam that appears to have made its way to the territory.
The Yukon RCMP have issued a warning about a computer scam that appears to have made its way to the territory.
Police said last Friday several Yukon residents have received a telephone call from someone purporting to represent “STARTECH”, warning that their computers were infected with malware, making them vulnerable to identity theft.
A deal is typically offered to repair the computer malware and spyware for several hundred dollars. The victim is then directed to an IP address where he or she is asked for personal and banking information.
In the past, scammers have called consumers saying they represent other large companies such as Microsoft, using the same approach.
The catch: there was never anything wrong with the computer, the caller was not working for the company claimed, and the owner has given a complete stranger access to every piece of data on his or her computer.
Additionally, the computer may well have malicious software installed at this time, enabling someone to capture sensitive data such as names, passwords and banking information.
The virus scam has grown to epidemic proportions in Canada, now accounting for between 70 and 80 per cent of frauds reported daily to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, police say.
The RCMP are reminding Yukoners that they will not receive unsolicited phone calls from companies in this manner.
Police are offering a number of tips to protect yourself from this scam and others like it:
People should treat all unsolicited phone calls with skepticism. Check with the organization directly that the caller is claiming to be from, using contact numbers found on their website.
Many such scams start after responses to Internet pop-up ads for anti-virus software, with similar results.
Do not provide any personal information. Many of these scam calls are an attempt to steal your identity, not just your money. Do not provide personal information over the phone.
Never provide credit or debit card information for payment unless you have initiated the call and know the company.
Look for the “lock” icon and the https:// connection to make sure that you have a safe connection.
Be proactive, use anti-virus software that you have acquired from reputable sources and keep it up to date.
For information on this and other scams, residents can visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at phonebusters.com.
Francias Pillman
Jan 24, 2012 at 7:21 pm
I got a call the other day similar to this. I can assure you it is not a scam. I indeed had a virus and it was quickly fixed.