Spam scam warning in South Lanarkshire

May 12 2011 by Shirley Bartynek, Hamilton Advertiser

TRADING Standards staff in South Lanarkshire are warning residents to be vigilant over the latest version of a ‘spam scam’.

A number of consumers complained to the service recently after receiving an unsolicited phone call from an alleged representative of a technology company. On some occasions, it is reported, the caller claimed to be from Microsoft.

The caller explains that the recipient’s computer is infected with potentially harmful viruses which could compromise online security.

An offer is then made to remove the virus, usually for a fee which can vary from £90 to as much as £185.

Explained divisional trading standards officer David Templeton: “At this stage, the caller will talk you through a procedure which will ultimately give them full access to, and control over, your PC. If and when this happens, they will be able to install potentially malicious software or spam and may also be able to retrieve personal details such as your name, address and financial information.

“As well as losing money to a bogus service, any software the scammer has installed will also need to be removed, which could leave you even further out of pocket.

“Our advice here is simple - do not give anyone access to your computer as you may be handing them your life on a plate. A significant amount of personal information can be gleaned this way, which could cost you way more than the initial fee. Just hang up, and report it to us.

“If you think your computer has a virus, only you will know. No-one in a remote call centre somewhere can claim to know different. No matter what, always take technical advice before making any decision.”

For further information or advice, or to report a suspected scam, contact the team on 01355 806865.