Scam Watch: Microsoft Tech Support Scam

Syracuse (WSYR-TV) -- Computer errors can be a headache, but they could become an even bigger headache if you take a phone call from someone claiming to be from Microsoft.

Many of you have called us about calls you?ve received from someone claiming to be from Microsoft.

Retired teacher Diane Curran used to have eyes in the back of her head for students? antics, but this time, it was her ears that picked up on some bad behavior.

Something was wrong with her computer, according to a man with a thick accent on the other end of the line. The man knew Diane?s name and address and was very direct.

?He said, 'If you would just go to your computer and go to your Windows manager page.' I said 'No, I will look at my computer after we hang up,'" Curran told NewsChannel 9.

The man hung up after Diane said she would call him back at the number on her caller ID. What was he after?

?It could be as simple as getting passwords or information like that, or actually implanting some kind of virus, which will give them access to bank accounts and credit cards, things like that,? explained a representative with the Better Business Bureau. ?I could see where somebody who received that call, they might think it was legitimate.?

Microsoft says it never makes unsolicited phone calls.

Curran did the right thing by hanging up on him.

Scammers will try and try again and they can make it sound like it?s an emergency and you need to get to your computer right away. This tech support phone scam seems to be hitting Camillus, but we also got some calls from viewers in Solvay.

Here are a few tips to keep you safe:

• Treat all unsolicited calls with skepticism and never provide any personal information over the phone.
• If you think you may have already fallen victim to this scam, Microsoft advises you to change the passwords on your computer, your bank and credit accounts.
• Scan your computer?s hard drive using your anti-virus program.
• You might even want to contact your bank to warn them about the potential for suspicious activity on your accounts.

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