SCAM ALERT: Don’t get caught out by the latest computer ‘virus’ con sweeping across Spain

AN increase in scams via the Internet in Spain has been identified by National Police whereby conmen pass themselves off as technicians of an American computer company.
Scammers apparently call a potential victim and claim they are an employee of a major computer company.
After establishing a contact, they claim they have detected a virus on the target’s computer and that it can be ‘cleaned’ simply through the network for a small fee, ranging from five to €50.
During the conversation the con artist gives a series of technical details and instructions to supposedly access the computer and repair it remotely, while asking for bank details.
According to police sources, in some cases the victim is sent personal accreditation of the fake worker by email, which includes corporate logo, a name and photograph.
Within days, it becomes apparent that charges of up to €500 have been taken from the individual’s bank account.
In other incidents, police confirmed the scammer gets the victim to give them remote access to their computer. This allows them to access bank details and carry out other fraudulent transfers to crypto currency accounts.
As a result, National Police is advising anybody who receives a call from an unknown source regarding a virus on a computer or smartphone to refuse to give any bank details.