Computer takeover scams

With advances in technology, scams and scammers have become more sophisticated. In some cases, criminals can use software to take-over your computer remotely, and see your passwords and security details, as you type them on screen.

While posing as your internet company, your bank or the police, scammers convince you to give them access to your computer. They may claim to be fixing your computer or improving your internet speed, and offer you compensation for the disruption. They will then urge you to log on to your internet banking to check that this money has arrived. When you do, a fake website page appears that looks like your online banking page. Criminals use this to withdraw money without your knowledge.

• your internet provider or bank calls about a problem with your connection and asks for immediate access of your computer
• this cold caller offers you a refund or compensation for the inconvenience
• the person, or a supervisor calls then claims they have sent you a payment and asks you to log on to your online bank to confirm it has arrived
• they ask you to type in your log on details, as normal.

• never give a stranger remote access to your computer
• don’t pass on your personal, credit card or online account details over the phone, unless you are talking to a trusted person
• be wary of anyone who calls to repair your computer or asks for remote access – even if they are from a company you know
• make sure your anti-virus and anti-spyware software is regularly updated
• consider changing your email address and phone numbers to deter cold calls and enquiries
• don’t share your security details with anyone – except a Third-Party Service Provider (TPP) permitted to use those details for open banking services.