Microsoft Support Scam
Avoiding technical support scams
Cybercriminals don't just send fraudulent email messages. They might call you on the telephone and claim to be from Microsoft. They might also setup websites with persistent pop-ups displaying fake warning messages and a phone number to call and get the "issue" fixed. They might offer to help solve your computer problems or sell you a software license. Once they have access to your computer, they can do the following:
Trick you into installing malicious software that could capture sensitive data, such as online banking user names and passwords. They might also then charge you to remove this software.
Convince you to visit legitimate websites (like www.ammyy.com) to download software that will allow them to take control of your computer remotely and adjust settings to leave your computer vulnerable.
Request credit card information so they can bill you for phony services.
Direct you to fraudulent websites and ask you to enter credit card and other personal or financial information there.
Remember, Microsoft will never proactively reach out to you to provide unsolicited PC or technical support. Any communication
they have with you must be initiated by you.
DONT CALL THEM BACK
You are infected scam
Warning - Your Computer Is Infected!"
is a fake pop-up error message displayed by a malicious website that
users often visit inadvertently - they are redirected by various
potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) that stealthily infiltrate
systems during installation of other software (the "bundling" method).
As well as causing redirects, PUPs deliver intrusive advertisements
and track browsing activity by gathering various user-system
information.
The error message states that the
system is infected, that someone is attempting to access/steal
personal data (logins/passwords, banking details, etc.), and the
infection must be eliminated immediately. Victims are encouraged to
call "Customer Support" via a telephone number ("+1-8xx-xxx-xxxx (number varies)")
provided. They are then supposedly guided through the removal process.
As mentioned above, however, the "Warning - Your Computer Is
Infected!" message is fake. Cyber criminals attempt to trick victims
into calling and paying for services that are not required. Therefore,
you should never attempt to call the aforementioned telephone
number. You can remove this error simply by closing the web browser.
NEVER GIVE THEIVES YOUR MONEY
