The phone rings and there’s a voice on the line telling you they’re aware you’re having computer problems, but not to worry – they’re with Microsoft, and they’re here to help. It’s a complete lie, and the opening gambit of an all-too-successful scam.
I HAVE had to pass on tips and warnings to a number of people here in France about these so-called tech support calls from Microsoft.
Consumer association Which? offers a detailed look at the scam and what to look out for so that you can put the telephone down on these thieves.
A recent scam is one that asks for your Carte Vitale information via SMS message to your mobile phone, often you are redirected to a copycat website that will ask for log-in details and bank account numbers.
Comments
3 responses to “What does Microsoft have to say about ‘tech support’ scam calls?”
Yes, I have had these calls. They get a very short response from me. As far as I’m concerned these people are crooks and are taking unsuspecting peoples’ hard-earned money.
These are a real pain. So are the EDF ones which want to send a technician to you (sales), Pacitel only works for a few months, but if you keep renewing it works.
I sometimes amuse myself by asking them to repeat what they just said. And again, and again. Or mutter under your breath, ‘Hey listen to this…’ Or leave the phone open and let them jabber to empty air. They give up on the call. But it doesn’t get rid of various types of nuisance calls. And often I don’t have the energy to waste.
I also have a second VOIP line which I give out when asked by places where I order items. They just want the number to sell on, and I always say, ‘contact me by email regarding this order.’ The VOIP number is never answered and does not forward call. Dead end. Or I give a defunct mobile number.
But the whole point is, these types of calls, whether scam, spam or sales are a nuisance and a waste of time. And sad for people who fall for them. We’ve defined the problem for years, who is going to be able to come up with the solution?
I do not understand the accents of some of these callers some of the time and find myself responding in Anglo-Saxon. At this point they seem to hang up !!!