Drumheller RCMP are warning residents of yet another scam, designed to separate a person from their money.
The local detachment has received reports of several recent phishing attempts, and are warning residents to be aware of people who identify themselves as representatives of Microsoft.
Residents have been seeing fake pop-up messages on their computer that tells the user their computer has been hacked and needs repairs. The message then directs them to call a number that is provided in the pop-up.
When called, the person on the other line will identify himself or herself as a representative of Microsoft and offer to fix the computer.
By following the person on the telephone’s directions, the fraudster is able to access the computer and steal personal information including banking and financial information.
Police advise should anyone see this scenario playing out on their computer, to not follow any pop-up links or call any of the numbers provided. Police recommend the person disconnect from the Internet and contact a reputable computer repair business.
More information about this and other scams can be found at The Canadian Anti- Fraud Centre:
www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca