Computer virus trap

£1000 loss for pensioner

Computer users have been warned not to fall foul of computer scammers, after a pensioner was conned out of £1000.

Local officers are investigating a scam where a 66 year-old woman from Doune was conned out of nearly £ 1000 by a female caller claiming to be from Microsoft.

The victim received a phone call on Tuesday evening from a female with an Asian/ English accent who stated she worked for Microsoft and that the victim’s computer had multiple viruses on it.

She then navigated the victim to scan her computer which showed that the computer had some faults.

The culprit has then convinced the complainer that her computer had been hacked and that she required an anti- hacking programme to fix the problem which would cost more than £300.

“The victim agreed and made a bank transfer to a bank account provided by the culprit.

The woman was then told that there was a problem with the money being transferred to their account and that she would need to now pay by Money Gram.

“The victim agreed and transferred a larger amount using the service.

“The pensioner did not receive any anti- hacking software and decided to report this to the police when the culprit called her back asking her to send a further £1000.

Community Sergeant David McNally said: “This is an obvious scam and the victim has lost nearly £ 1000. We are currently investigating this and in all likelihood the money will have been sent abroad where the scam has probably been orchestrated from.

“The chances of the victim getting her money back are very slim due to this.

“Please don’t fall into this trap. Warn family members and especially the elderly as they more likely to be duped by these people.

“If you receive a cold call from a company that appears reputable, do not hand over any money until you are certain that they are bona fide and you are satisfied that it is a genuine caller.

“Speak to a family member or friend for advice first before you commit to anything so that you don’t become a victim as well.”

Police are also warning that most computers will show faults when you scan them if you don’t regularly clean them with the standard installed computer software and anti-virus.