Northern Territory Police are warning NT residents to be wary of a telephone scam where people claim to be from an IT based company, usually Microsoft.
Detective Sergeant Craig Windebank from the Computer Crime Unit said callers are obtaining personal information.
“The caller will claim the victim’s computer is infected with a virus or the anti-virus software requires updating.
“The victim is convinced to allow the scammer remote access privileges to their computer after which the scammer installs some type of malware and potentially obtains the victims personal details.
“Police are warning the public to be aware of this scam and if they receive such a call to report it to police on 131 444.
"The best advice we can give to Territorians is not to respond to these calls. Hang up if you believe it to be a scam and inform Police.
"Scammers are criminals - they act illegally and can contact you from anywhere in the world. They rely on people being too embarrassed or ashamed to report being caught by this type of scam. If you have been caught up in this scam, or any similar circumstances, report it to police." he said.
Please see below the Australian Communications and Media Authority link relating to this issue:
http://acma.gov.au/theACMA/consumer-warning-hang-up-on-phone-scammers
There is also a general link for online awareness and good practices.
