Virus Removal & Online Scams
Malware Removal We employ a unique malware & virus removal process, perfected over many years of virus elimination, to ensure that your system is cleaned up and running malware-free. After removing everything unnecessary, we offer a number of Internet security solutions based on your needs.
A New Threat? Sadly, once it became harder to infect computers with malware, — scammers began targeting users pocketbooks directly — just as life always finds a way, online fraudsters have invented new and sinister methods to prey on potential victims…
Scammer Tactics
Scammers will often call potential victims directly – often claiming to be an employee of Microsoft or Google; remote access software is used to access their victim’s computer, and at the very least will attempt to peddle unnecessary “cleanup utilities.”
If you don’t comply, prepare for the scammer to lock you out of your own system using a password only they know.
Thankfully, in such circumstances, data recovery of important files is possible.
Refund Scams
But that’s pretty tame compared to “refund scams” — Thousands of dollars disappear in moments — and they’ve found a way to make this practice completely untraceable. It starts out seemingly innocent with the scammer offering congratulates on receiving a “$500 refund.”
Once connected to the victim’s computer, the scammer accesses online banking. Instead of “transferring $500,” he “accidentally types too many zeroes, and actually transfers $5,000.”
They Prey on Empathy
This is made to look believable by temporarily blanking out the user’s screen while manipulating the inspect tool in Google Chrome. No real money was ever transferred by the scammer.
The scammer says that their “mistaken transfer” cannot be reversed, and that their job is now on the line.
Once the scammer obtains the gift card redemption codes, their mission is complete, and their victim will never see that money again.
Attacks on Northern VA Residents
Recently, one of our customers in Alexandria was scammed for $5,000 by an overseas refund scammer. This is happening to our family and neighbors who are either over-trusting or just don’t know any better. Even if you haven’t experienced any of the above, please educate those close to you about this ever-growing issue so that they won’t fall victim to these latest online threats.
And if you or someone you care for has been scammed or is currently being scammed, we offer full clean-up after these types of instances.
Mount Vernon Computers removes malware, viruses, spyware, adware, ransomware, Trojan horses, rootkits, and other unwanted, unintended software.
Available Daily by Appointment
Feel free to call or text – we look forward to serving you!
Proudly serving Alexandria, Virginia.
Franconia • Ft Hunt • Old Town • Free Quotes • Military / Teacher / Service Worker Discounts Available
Copyright Mount Vernon Computer Repair, LLC 2004-2023 • View Our Privacy Policy