Pharr Woman Warns of Phony Calls Targeting Computer Owners
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PHARR – A word of warning in regards to thieves targeting computer owners.
Pharr resident Toni Marie Smith received several calls from people claiming there were issues with her operating system.
"He said, ‘We can do it over the phone, we can fix your computer,’" she said.
Smith said for the past few days, she's been getting calls like that.
She said those on the other end of the line claiming to be from her internet provider saying there is an issue with her computer's operating system. But before they would begin repairs, there would be a $100 fee.
"He seemed very professional about it but what he was saying didn't ring true," said Smith.
Smith said she asked if the fee could be tack on to her next bill. She tells us they wanted to get paid immediately after the repairs either with cash or gift card.
They also wanted to start as soon as possible.
"I said, ‘No, I'm sick in bed.’ And he said, 'Could you get it done tomorrow' and I said, ‘I'll see if I can when my nurse gets here,’" said Smith.
After thinking about it, Smith decided to call her provider where she then learned the whole thing wasn't true.
While Smith received several phone calls, this isn't the only way you can be targeted. Experts said they can also contact you via email. If you do receive one of these emails don't reply. You also don't want to hit any suspicious links or it could end costly.
Dolores Salinas with the Better Business Bureau told CHANNEL 5 NEWS ploys like this can be common in the day and age.
"They bank on the fact that you're going to panic, you're going to want to do immediate action and that's the worst thing you can do,” she said. “You need to stop and think about what's going on.”
Salinas said they hear reports like this often.
"Number one: tech support companies will not call you out of the blue," she said.
Salinas said the best thing you can when you get a call or email is to never give out any personal information, something Smith said she was grateful to avoid.
Link: BBB Scam Tracker
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