LEON COUNTY, Fla. (WTXL) - The Leon County Sheriff's Office is warning citizens about a computer scam circulating the area.
In particular, LCSO is warning about computer scams involving individuals asking for access to your computer.
They say the tech support scam starts with a Microsoft pop-up window on your screen. It states that your computer has been hacked and you need to call a random 1-800 number.
When you call the number, the scammer on the other end of the line requests access to your computer to solve the problem. When you give them access, they begin accessing your personal files and will disable your Microsoft ID.
After that, victims are transferred to another person who demands money in order to restore function to your computer.
LCSO says that in at least one local incident, the victim says she saw her camera light come on and heard what sounded like her picture being taken. The victim was then shown an FBI page and told if she did not pay, the FBI would be at her door one hour after a report was submitted.
Deputies are reminding you that Microsoft will not solicit you to make repairs to your computer. Never give unverified individuals access to your computer.
Microsoft has tips on how to recognize and avoid scams like these. You can find additional pictures and info here.
