Scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated and subtle catching people out; with increasing numbers of people reporting they have been the victim of a scam.
There is one particular scam that has been claiming an increasing number of victims and can occur following the purchase of a new computer printer and help is needed to install the printer.
Basic instructions are included with a new printer on how to set up the printer and get it connected to your computer, laptop or mobile device enabling them to print via the printer.
This is where this subtle scam can come into play, usually using one of two methods:
- Asking you to call a given phone number; or
- Registering your details via a website.
Once your personal details have been recorded, a scammer calls you pretending to be from the printer company or a third-party company.
The scammer will request remote access to your computer, laptop or mobile device and will then show “errors” on the device, along with advising the device has security issues. They then advise they can fix your computer, laptop or mobile device by selling you and then installing some “software” (for example 3rd Party Firewall, Anti-Virus and/or Anti-Malware software); while at the same time deducting the cost of the “software” from your bank account!
The software the scammer sells and installs is NOT the full version but Time-Limited Trial versions or Freely Available versions that may be infected with Viruses and/or Malware.
When purchasing a new printer, we recommend thoroughly checking the install instructions first. If you have any concerns or need help setting up a new printer please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.