Washington Co., WI – The Washington Co. Sheriff’s Office would like to remind everyone to be cautious while utilizing the internet. The “Microsoft Support” scam has resurfaced and has evolved.
Traditionally, this is a scam in which a potential victim receives a pop-up on their computer notifying them of an error and directing the person to call a telephone number. The scammers then try to get the victim to pay to fix a nonexistent problem or steal their personal and financial information. This is typically done by gaining remote access to the victim’s computer. They will then often install malware or other unwanted programs that can steal your information.
Recently, fraudsters have taken this further. They now tell the potential victim that they determined the victim’s bank app or accounts have been jeopardized. They then refer the victim to an “Investigator.” The “Investigator” then distributes emails that look like they are from the Social Security Administration (SSA), the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), or other agencies. The emails ensure the victim that the crime is being investigated and that they cannot tell anyone about it as it would jeopardize the investigation. They also require the victim to “safeguard” their funds by contacting another representative. This representative then attempts to get a money transfer, gift cards, or a cryptocurrency deposit.
Microsoft does not send unsolicited email messages or make unsolicited phone calls. If a pop-up or error message appears with a phone number, don’t call the number. Error and warning messages from Microsoft will never include a phone number. Microsoft will never ask for gift cards or cryptocurrency.
