Authorities warn against Microsoft scam
Sep 7, 2012, 6:47 AM | Updated: 6:47 am
PHOENIX — If Microsoft calls to ask for money to fix the computer, don’t give it to them.
The latest scam involves overseas thieves calling to sell fake virus protection. The thieves ask for the user’s credit card information and may even try to connect to their computer remotely, allowing them access to personal information such as the user’s Social Security number and bank account information.
Dwight Develyn with the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office said residents across Arizona are getting scammed.
“Seniors and maybe those who aren’t so computer savvy think, ‘When Microsoft calls, I better listen,’ ” she said.
The scam has been around since 2009, but it’s difficult to prosecute overseas fraud. Most scams can be traced to Dubai or South Africa through fraudulent credit card charges.
“Microsoft never issues unsolicited phone calls or emails for computer repair,” said D’Evelyn.
D’Evelyn also says victims rarely get their money back because overseas scams are difficult to track and prosecute.
Victims of this type of scam can head to file a complaint.
