Phone scam leads to computer hacking

Greater Sudbury Police are warning citizens about telephone calls which have led to personal computers being hacked.

Citizens will receive a telephone call from an individual who says they represent Microsoft, and they're calling to alert you of a virus on your computer.

The caller says their technician will need to access your computer remotely to verify the problem. This allows them to copy malware to your computer “and can cause you some major issues,” a press release from the police said.

Police are advising the public not to allow these callers access to computers.

Problems can also arise from “phishing” e-mail messages which are designed to steal your identity, the press release said. They ask for data or direct you to websites where you are asked to provide personal data.

Anyone with complaints similar to those described above can report them to the Canadian Anti Fraud Centre (formerly Phone Busters) at 1-888-495-8501.

-Posted by Heidi Ulrichsen