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Police warn of computer virus scam

Thunder Bay police have issued a warning about a computer virus scam. About six complaints have come in with the help of the online reporting program about possible computer virus scams in the city.

Thunder Bay police have issued a warning about a computer virus scam.

About six complaints have come in with the help of the online reporting program about possible computer virus scams in the city. Police say someone from Microsoft or another software company calls to ask if the person’s computer is running slowly. The caller will say they can fix the problem remotely and ask for credit card information to cover the fee.

Police say the fee ranges from $35 to $470.

Once the caller has access to the computer, the perpetrator can access all personal information stored on the hard drive. Police say allowing a third party to download software or remotely accessing the computer carries serious risks.

But not all virus scams happen over the phone.

The Canadian Anti-Fraud Center also reported scams by responding to Internet pop up ads.

Police want to remind the public to protect themselves by installing anti-virus software and keeping it up to date.

Police warned that if anyone calls out of the blue and offers help to just hang up and contact the company yourself.

Visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Center's website for the latest on emerging fraud trends, advice on protecting yourself and victim's guides that will help you recover from fraud loss.

 

 





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