Each of us has received an unexpected call, and we often ignore it or just hang up. But what if that call suddenly comes from a familiar brand like Microsoft? In a world where digitalization continues to advance inexorably, cybercriminals are constantly looking for new ways to deceive innocent users. A recent example from Rees shows how sophisticated yet shockingly simple these tactics can be.

The surprise call from Microsoft

Mr. Müller (name changed) from Rees, a 64-year-old who is familiar with technology, was surprised when his phone rang and the caller pretended to be a Microsoft employee. The message was clear: his computer was infected and help was available. But what started as a harmless offer of help quickly turned into a nightmare.

The so-called “offer of help”:

Such scenarios often begin with good-sounding intentions. The alleged Microsoft employee informed Mr. Müller about a dangerous Trojan virus that had infected his PC. But to “solve” the problem, the caller requested remote access to the computer. A step that should have far-reaching consequences.

The trap closes:

After Mr. Müller initially agreed, he quickly realized that something was wrong. But recognizing the deception came too late. His PC was blocked and the caller now demanded payment - not in cash, but in voucher codes. A clever way to cover up traces.

The police warn:

Such scams are not new, but they are increasing and becoming more sophisticated. The police urge caution: you should never allow unknown callers access to private devices. And even if the callers supposedly come from a well-known company, personal data, passwords or access authorizations should always remain protected.

How do you protect yourself?

Experts advise:

  1. Be skeptical: Even if the caller sounds professional, always look for verification options.
  2. Never allow third-party access: Regardless of who is calling, you should never allow a stranger access to your device.
  3. Regular security updates: Always keep your PC up to date and use trustworthy security software.
  4. Report: Always inform the police of suspicious calls.

Conclusion:

The digitalized world offers numerous advantages, but also brings with it new challenges. The incident in Rees is just one example of many. It is essential to stay vigilant and informed. Caution is not only the mother of the china box, but also the key to protecting our digital world.

Would you like to stay up to date and protect yourself against such scams? Then sign up for the Mimikama newsletter and take advantage of Mimikama's educational offerings .

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