Computer Scam advice from Trading Standards

Trading Standards have issued a warning to PC users to be on their guard against a new scam recently reported to them via Staffordshire Police.

Reports have been received from people who have had screen messages pop up advising them that they were required to pay a £100 ‘fine' for viewing illegal pornography and terrorism-related content. The users found that their PCs had been locked by the pop-up in an attempt to force payment.

Whilst enquiries into this particular scam are ongoing, officers suspect that the pop-ups are likely a result of users unwittingly downloading files, or being tricked into installing something under false pretences, such as bogus Anti Virus software or adult site access software.

Trading Standards have suggested that the installation of these files are unlikely to have been done without permission from the user, although it is possible that unsecured PCs could be vulnerable to stealthy, so-called ‘drive-by' attacks from compromised websites. These often target vulnerabilities in outdated browsers, such as Internet Explorer 6.

PC users can minimise their vulnerability by observing their general security advice:

  1. Keep PC operating systems and software fully updated. Windows users should ensure that their machines are set to automatically check for Windows updates.
  2. If you are still using it, upgrade from Internet Explorer 6 immediately.
  3. Never open attachments or click on links in unsolicited emails.
  4. Do not allow unsupervised Internet access to minors.
  5. Install and regularly update legitimate antivirus, anti-spyware and firewall software.
  6. Be aware of previous warnings and advice on fake antivirus software.
  7. Never be tempted to install counterfeited or ‘hacked' software products, as these often include malicious code.
  8. Do not download files or software via the internet unless your are satisfies as to the legitimacy of the site you are downloading from.
  9. Enjoy the Internet, but proceed with caution, and be sceptical of offers that seem too good to be true.

If you require any further information, please contact BusinessWatch on 01246 212909 or email info@businesswatch.org