Computer service fraudsters target vulnerable in Sussex
The number or reports are on the rise
Police say vulnerable people in Sussex are being increasingly targeted by computer software service fraudsters.
Sussex Police has received 122 reports of the fraud since the start of 2021, with many of the victims targeted being women over the age of 75.
46 of the victims were scammed out of a combined total of £233,760, with the average loss being £5,082.
Common scenarios also include callers pretending to be from reputable organisations.
One victim aged 82, received a call from someone claiming to be from BT Engineering who said her internet connection was no longer secure and needed fixing.
As she had been experiencing issues with her internet connection, she believed this was a genuine call. The caller then stated that they needed to access her computer remotely and began downloading some software onto the device.
The fraudster stated that he could see that the 'hackers' had tried to access her online banking and that he could prevent this as he had already caught several of these criminals in the past.
After saying that he had downloaded some security software to her device, the victim became suspicious and noticed that £14,000 had been illegally withdrawn from her account.
The victim is now being supported by specialist police officers.
To protect yourself or someone you know from becoming a victim of fraud, consider the following key tips:
If you receive a call like this hang up. Take Five and verify the call via a trusted method, not the numbers given in the call.
Never allow anyone to remotely access your computer
Do not download software on the request of a phone caller
A genuine service provider will never call you out of the blue regarding issues with your computer or broadband.
Microsoft will not request your banking information or personal details to validate Windows software on your devices.
Please pass this advice onto your loved ones, particularly those who are elderly or vulnerable.
If you or someone you know is vulnerable and has been a victim of fraud call please contact Sussex Police by calling 101 or via their website.
Report fraud or attempted fraud, by contacting Action Fraud online or by calling 0300 123 2040.