The Junk Mail team would like to let you know about a new scam that has been targeting South Africans in recent times. We’re continuing our quest to inform South Africans about the scams that are out there.
Last week the popular SA Technology website My Broadband posted a warning about a new phone scam that is targeting South Africans. Internet users should be wary of an international phone scam that allows people full access to their computer.
So How Does This Scam Work?
Victims get a call on their landline from someone claiming to be a Microsoft employee, alerting them to a computer problem. The scammer claims that the victim’s computer is submitting error messages and contains corrupt files that could damage it. The user is led to a program called Microsoft Event Viewer (which displays error messages). They are then told to go to a website and download software to fix the problem.
Some South Africans had fallen victim to the scam, giving over full control of their computer with an added insult of a 185 pounds sterling fee (More than R2,300). Microsoft are aware of the scam, and has said that its not their policy to make phone calls of this kind to their customers.
Remember: If something sounds to good to be true, it’s usually false. If something looks or sounds dodgy, it’s probably dodgy. Follow your gut and trust your instincts. Be smart, be savvy and be safe and avoid being a victim of scams.
If you have picked up a scam on the Junk Mail website you are welcome to report this our Customer Care department via ccc@junkmail.co.za or telephonically on 012-3423840 x2295 (during office hours). You can read more about scams in the posts listed on the Safety and Security page on the Junk Mail blog.
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