Diamond Byte Technology Advice

Computer Service Software Fraud

Last year, Action Fraud launched a campaign to educate people about Computer Software Service Fraud (CSSF). CSSF involves the victim being contacted via a phone call, an email or a pop-up message appearing on their computer and being told that there is a problem with their computer or that there is something wrong with their internet connection. They are informed that the issue can be resolved and are asked to make a payment via their credit or debit card. In some instances, the fraudster will also gain remote access to the victim’s computer by installing software on their computer, thus allowing them to access personal and  nancial details. No  x takes place because there is no problem in the  rst place.

The National Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB) has also reported that CSSF scammers are contacting previous victims, requesting that they pay money owed for a fake malware protection service they had provided. Alternatively, the scammer will ask for a new subscription fee in return for protection from a new threat. Often, threatening language is used to force people into paying money.

Should you receive an unsolicited call:

• Don’t make a payment. • Never allow remote access to your computer. • Don’t be pressured into making a decision - a

genuine bank or another trusted organisation won’t force you to make a  nancial transaction on the spot. Although genuine computer  rms tend not to send out unsolicited communication about security updates, they do send security software updates. If in doubt, don’t open the email, click the link or download any attachments.

If a pop-up message appears on your screen asking you to contact a number to  x the problem:

• Don’t follow any prompts on the pop-up to sign up to a service or call a number. • Never pay for something if prompted to do so by the pop-up. • Even clicking the X to close the window may not work – it could download malware to your PC.

Instead, press Ctrl + Shift + Esc in Windows to see which programs you have open, and fully close your web browser from here.

So, remember, computer  rms NEVER make unsolicited phone calls to help you  x your computer. Fraudsters make these phone calls to try to steal from you and damage your computer with malware. Treat all unsolicited phone calls with suspicion and never give out any personal information.

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