A computer scam, which could cost residents thousands of rands, has shown its head again with a Kempton Park resident falling victim.
Be aware of a phone call telling you your computer has a virus which needs to be fixed and that it can be done remotely.
André Loock, a retired local resident was targeted at his home, and unfortunately fell into the trap and lost R5 000 on his credit card after believing the scammer.
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“A scammer calls you, claiming to be a computer security expert from Microsoft. They will tell you that your computer has been infected with malware and that they can resolve it for you. They asked me to open a Teamviewer session so that they can install an anti-virus and after that I can pay R90 and my Windows will be updated for the rest of my life,” said Loock.
After Loock had allowed them into his personal computer they asked for his credit card details.
“When I received the notification that the money had gone off my account I was furious with myself for believing them but they already took R5 000 and obviously they are untraceable,” he said.
Loock warns the public to not provide personal information to anyone and never provide bank and/or credit card details.
Microsoft warned in 2011 that scammers had taken to the phone lines to dupe Windows users into putting malware on their machines or paying for worthless help.
According to Microsoft, scammers try to trick users into believing their computer is infected – often by having them look at a Windows log that typically shows scores of harmless or low-level errors – then convinces them to download software or let the “technician” remotely access the PC.
