Microsoft will not call you about a virus

How it works

The scam starts with a phone call, or with a pop-up on screen telling you to call a number. The person on the line says they are from Microsoft, Apple, your internet provider, your bank or your own IT department. Your computer, they say, has a virus, has been hacked or is sending out errors.

They ask you to install a remote access program so they can fix it. Once connected, they can see everything you do. They may show you normal system messages and call them proof of infection, then ask for payment for a “repair,” or quietly install software, copy files or open your banking.

What gives it away

• They called you. Microsoft and Apple do not phone people about problems with their computers.
• They want remote access to a computer you did not report a problem with.
• There is urgency: your accounts will be locked or your data lost unless you act now.
• They ask for payment by gift card, wire transfer or cryptocurrency.

What to do

• Hang up. You can be polite about it, but do not stay on the line.
• Call your IT provider on the number you already have, and tell them what happened.
• If you already let them in, disconnect the computer from the internet and call IT straight away. Change passwords from a different device.