Be Scam Aware - Potential Microsoft Scam

Central

Bedfordshire

Scam Aware

Central Bedfordshire Council’s Trading Standards team is again warning residents and small businesses to be aware of a potential Microsoft scam.

 

We have recently received an increase in the number of reports from consumers who have been cold-called by telephone, with callers claiming to be from a range of non-specific companies working on behalf of Microsoft and that they have received an error message or "PC running slow" message sent from your computer. The caller then offers to resolve the problem for you by accessing your computer remotely and for a nominal fee, usually in the region of £70-100, payable by credit card.

The callers tend to use "Withheld" or "International" telephone numbers, although on some occassions numbers with recognised UK area codes have reportedly been used. However, reports received suggest the calls are originating from overseas. When challenged or asked further 'difficult' questions, the callers tend to promptly end the call.

In one report received, an unfortunate victim of this type of scam has discovered that a number of unauthorised transactions, totalling £2800, have taken place since they provided the caller with their credit card details. Therefore, we would advise anyone to act with extreme caution when receiving such calls.

Our advice to consumers would be, do not allow anybody remote access to your computer unless you are absolutely certain of their intentions. You may find that by allowing one of these callers access to your computer, it's security could potentially be weakened to allow future scam activity. Also, do not give your credit card details over the telephone unless you are sure the call is genuine. If you have any doubts as to whether a call is genuine, do not be afraid to hang up.

If you have information about suspect rogue traders or would like to report a possible scam please initially contact Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06, in order so that all relevant regulatory authorities can be notified.

In the meantime, please visit our website www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/bescamaware for advice and guidance on how to spot a scam and how to avoid becoming a victim.

Kind regards

Trading Standards

(Community Safety and Public Protection)

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Central Bedfordshire Council Priory House, Monks Walk, Chicksands, Shefford, Bedfordshire, SG17 5TQ

Telephone: 0300 300 8136 Email: trading.standards@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk

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