The fraudster

In this scam the fraudster, posing as a computer security employee allegedly representing a legitimate company, calls a person and tells them their computer is running slow or has viruses.  They at the time offer to repair the computer over the Internet.  The steps the fraudster has the victim take can involve the installation of software or even allowing the fraudster to remotely access to their computer.  The fraudster will often ask for payment for the software or repair service via credit card with the typical amount being between $ 200.00 - $300.00. 

Another way that the fraudster can contact a potential victim is through Vishing.  This involves the use of VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), or phone service over the internet.   A recorded message tells the potential victim their computer has a virus.  The recorded message will as well ask the victim to enter personal information and a credit card number, as VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) recognizes telephone keystrokes.   Once the fraudster has this information, you could become a victim of identity theft and fraud.

In Canada, the police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre have received 7,475 complainants regarding this scam over the past year.  Over 1,000 people suffered a financial loss, with the  total loss amounting to $303,913.93.  In Saskatchewan, there have been 323 complaints involving 40 victims and a total loss of $11,599.84.