Remote Access Scams

My good pal John from Blacon has been busy again and provided us with another very useful alert update. This one relates to remote access scams. In case you are not sure what this means, have a read of the article John sent me. Thanks yet again John for the valuable information.

Remote Access Scams

As before, John’s message is a Cheshire Police Alert Read on for more information.

“Over 20,000 people fell victim to remote access scams. More than £50 million was lost last year to scams where victims are tricked into handing over control of their computer or smartphone to criminals. New data from Action Fraud, the national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime, reveals that 20,144 people fell victim to scams where they were persuaded to grant criminals remote access to their device. https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/

Victims reported losing a total of £57,790,384 – an average loss of £2,868 per victim. What are remote access scams?

Remote Access Scams Explained

Remote Access scams will often begin with a browser pop-up saying that your computer is infected with a virus. Or maybe a call from someone claiming to be from your bank saying that they need to connect to your computer in order to cancel a fraudulent transaction on your account.

Regardless of the narrative the fraudster’s use, their goal is to steal your money or access your financial information by tricking you into allowing them to remotely connect to your computer. Detective Chief Inspector Craig Mullish, from the City of London Police, said:

“While remote access tools are safe when used legitimately, we want the public to be aware that they can be misused by criminals to perpetrate fraud. We often see criminals posing as legitimate businesses in order to trick people into handing over control of their computer or smartphone.

“You should only install software or grant remote access to your computer if you’re asked by someone you know and trust, such as a friend or family member, and never as a result of an unsolicited call, browser pop-up or text message.”

How to protect yourself

Only install software or grant remote access to your computer if you’re asked by someone you know and trust, such as a friend or family member, and never as a result of an unsolicited call, browser pop up, or text message. Also remember, a bank or service provider will never contact you out of the blue requesting remote access to your device.

If you believe your laptop, PC, tablet or phone has been infected with a virus or some other type of malware, follow the NCSC’s guidance on recovering an infected device. Protect your money by contacting your bank immediately on a different device from the one the scammer contacted you on.

Report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or via https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/

If you are in Scotland, please report to Police Scotland directly by calling 101.

Message Sent By Action Fraud (Action Fraud, Administrator, National).”

There you have it. Remote access scams explained. As ever be extra vigilant whenever you get such messages or requests. It is quite easy to be taken along but maybe one thing to be aware is, if in doubt don’t click anything. A simplistic approach maybe, but it may ultimately save you loads. Thanks again John for the heads up. And, also, if you can, please spread the word.

Stay safe everyone.

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