Police Warn Of Scam Computer Virus Calls

if you get a call asking how your computer is running, Spring Lake Heights Police warn it is likely a scam.

Spring Lake Heights Police received several recent reports that residents have been called by a company claiming to be "tech support." The caller tries to convince the victim they need to download a file or permit remote access to the computer to remove a virus.


In reality, police said, the caller is adding a virus to the computer, allowing them to access files and internet access, infecting the computer so it no longer works.
The caller will then demand money from the victim to restore the computer and remove the virus.

Spring Lake Heights Police said anyone who receives unsolicited phone calls like these should call the police. 

"Large computer companies to do not contact people out of the blue in response to a possible 'virus' that you may have. Do not download any files, and do not give out any personal information," announced the department, adding to not send money to the unsolicited caller.

Here is the complete message from Spring Lake Heights Police:

We have received complaints and reports of people who have been called contacted by someone reported to be from "tech support" that will state that you need to download a file or grant remote access to a computer to remove a virus. 

In another variant, people have their computer "held hostage" by a screen that requires them to pay an amount of money to a vendor or what says is a governmental agency to have the computer released. 

Large computer companies to do not contact people out of the blue in response to a possible "virus" that you may have. Do not download any files, and do not give out any personal information. If your computer does become infected, or you do grant control of your computer, contact us immediately. 

Please be cautious out there about unsolicited phone calls, and don't ever send any money to someone you have not verified thoroughly.