Is this a scam............

[Skye]

...........or am I being over-cautious?

Shortly before Christmas I received a phone call form someone with an asian accent, saying they were from Microsoft customer services. I had sent error messages (which I had, my old laptop was constantly freezing), and they were going to rectify the error.

I was to hit 'Run', and key in the address thay would give me, then they could put things right. Because I had registered Windows, they had to maintain it.

I've had PCs for about 25 years, and no-one has ever responded to an error message. I said I wasn't going to let anyone into my computer without knowing who they were. They said,'But I've just told you who I am'. I said 'But you would say that, wouldn't you?', and hung up.

I've just had another call, saying the same thing.

I've already replaced the laptop that was causing the problems, but I'd like to know if this is genuine, and if not, to warn people about it.

 

[Helen33]

They should at least give you a number to ring back.

 

[Sandy]

Hi Hazel,

I've never heard anything like this before. It does not sounds legit to me.

Take care,

 

[Brucie]

A call out of the blue I would be concerned about.

I would definitely ask for more information if you want to explore this.

I did a Google check and something a bit different came up on a forum elsewhere

Has anyone ever received a phone call from someone from Microsoft asking that they call them back at an 800 number with a 4 digit extension. They referred to me by my first name. They gave no clues or hints as to what it was about and I cant tell what department it is from. I tried calling back at about 6:30 pm and the the lady that the extension took me to was not there.

Generally I think Microsoft wants money for on line support so an ad hoc call is a little worrying, and I would think, unlikely.

 

[Grannie G]

I get Microsoft error messages every day Hazel but I have only had online requests to evaluate them.

 

[Brokenhearted]

Scam?

Hi Hazel,
I think I'd be wary of such phone calls, people are up to all sorts these days. Why not email Microsoft customer services and ask? Just a thought.
Take care,
Brokenhearted

 

[jenniferpa]

I don 't know whether this is relevant http://www.digitaltoast.co.uk/supportonclick-systemrecure-scam. Not exactly the same though.

Scam or not, there is no way I would give control of my computer to anyone: even if legit, I want to know exactly what is going on and also, how competent the person is.

 

[Skye]

Thanks everyone. I've checked the link, Jennifer, and it does sound similar. I'm going to send reports to all the places they suggest -- plus Microsoft.

 

[Skye]

I've just received an email from Microsoft:

Thank you for your email about the authenticity of the call received.



I was concerned to know that you have received calls purported to be from Microsoft. We appreciate you for taking the time to provide information about the received call. I would like to assure you that we do consider such information to be extremely valuable as it helps us to improve the service that we offer. With this in mind I will make sure that your information is passed to the appropriate department for their consideration.


We do not make telephone calls unless we have a request for technical support from the customer. I would suggest you to ignore the call and please do not provide any of your personal details. Privacy and Security are very important to us here at Microsoft, and we work every day to build great software for the Internet that keeps information safe, secure and private.

It is indeed a scam!

 

[connie]

Thanks for highlighting this Hazel.

Always useful to know.

 

[gigi]

Many thanks for bringing this to our attention, Hazel.

xx

 

[Winnie Kjaer]

Thank you and well done, you just cannot be TOO careful can you.

 

[Skye]

Just had an email from the local paper, they want to feature the story, and are coming tomorrow to take a photo!

Oh dear, I wish I hadn't eaten all those chocolates!!!!

 

[connie]

Well done to the paper for taking this story further.

Don't worry Hazel. Just smile your lovely smile. It will all be O.K. (Remember to turn slightly sideways - tip from my stage days)

 

[Skye]

Thanks for the tip, Connie. Will that disguise my double chin?

 

[Grannie G]

Holding heads up disguises double chins hazel. Take it from one who knows.
Well done to you and well done to your local paper.
Love xx

 

[Canadian Joanne]

Be careful you don't hold your chin too high. That's why I look odd in a lot of photos.

 

[Izzy]

Tongue on the roof of the mouth!! (That's what my friend always says but I think I just end up looking strangulated!)

You'll have to post a link to their article.

Well done! Izzy x

 

[Skye]

I'd need to be a contortionist to follow all your tips!

I'm not sure it will be important enough to be online. I emailed Daily Mail and Border TV too, but haven't heard from them. Border TV is too busy with weather reports! It was -14 here last night apparently, and -3 at lunchtime!

 

[CraigC]

Well just read this and yes a scam for sure.
Good luck with the paparazzi!

I found this link during my recent wrangle with the Telegraph - I have a fear of having my photo taken

Useful stuff including tips on making our chins behave

http://www.wikihow.com/Be-Photogenic