OT - phone/computer scam - BEWARE

[wc1934]

Received a phone call today from someone who stated they are calling because it appears as though my computer has a virus. His company, Lets Assist, has been contacted because my computer has sent a number of error messages, has crashed more often than it should etc etc. The caller wanted me to open my browser and type in "my support" or something like that. I think that the scam is that if I had done what he requested he would have been able to remotely access my computer, view my accounts etc. I asked for his phone number to call him back and he hung up.

THEN, about 3 hours later another call - same story, my computer is sending error messages etc -This guy wants me to do the exact same thing. I inquire if it will cost me and he stated that I would be charged $129. I string the guy along for awhile and then tell him that I have kept him on the line long enough and know that this is a scam and will report him - he too hangs up - hopefully they will stop calling.

Is there someone/agency that I can call to alert them of this scam or file a complaint? 2nd guy stated he was calling from India.

[learningtoride]

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[Jaq]

This scam's been around ~8 months or so, maybe longer. Average take is something like 400 dollars per sucker, and they reel in an average of 3 suckers a day. I don't have the links, but some google-fu will bring it up.

I used to tell them I have a Mac (they claim to be from Microsoft). Now I just hang up.

[bostondrunk]

We've gotten that call a few times. After the first time I started trying to have fun with them. String them along, act like a complete idiot. I ask them if the problem is related to me looking at porn on the internet, and how I don't want my parole officer to find out, about my buddy twiggy in state prison ratting me out for it, don't wat my sister to lose her pole dancing job, etc etc. It's kind of fun. :)
Remember ebola monkey?? :)

[binxnyrwarrsoul]

The problem is that our phone numbers email and IP addresses are all over the internet. Hell, google asks me for my phone number every now and then when I sign into gmail. Never give it to them, but I'm sure many do. When the phone rings, I look at the caller ID, if I know the number, I answer it. Not falling for these scams has more to do with common sense. A rarity these days, unfortunately.

[learningtoride]

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