@katrix67 wrote:
Hello,
Im hoping someone can help me with this query.
I had a pop up alert claiming to be from Microsoft stating my computer had trojan virus. recorded Voice over American accent. Legitimate looking microsoft graphics and warnings flashing stating at risk from spy and malware. I contacted the number advised to call 0800 number spoke to an operator and he accessed my laptop remotely. He then said problem with Network being attacked and would need to pay £199.00 share bank card details etc. I said No and put phone down. So called operator called me back and was getting quite aeriated and pressing me to follow his request to pay money to get problem fixed. I said No again and put phone down. I have changed my password email address. I dont do online banking but I am now very insecure about this being a scam and how much info can be gained. Any support from anyone who has had similar happen?
Yes, this was a scammer.
If you have allowed the scammer remote access to your laptop you will need to take steps to ensure that no malware or remote access software has been left behind on the device. From a practical point of view, this probably means wiping down the device and reloading the operating system and programs to ensure no backdoor routes in have been left behind on the device. You should keep the laptop offline and out of use until you are sure it has been thoroughly checked out/tested. Alongside anything else, you will need to clear out the fake malware alert that took you to phone the scammers in the first place.
It would also be sensible to go through all of your online logins and services and change the passwords to unique/secure ones for each site/service as well as any additional security information for sites.
The amount of risk to you is probably in proportion to how long the scammer had remote access to your device for and what sort of sensitive info you have stored on the laptop.
You can also report the incident to Action Fraud, who should be able to provide you with further advice/info.
https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/