CALLOUS fraudsters are targeting North Wales residents with a two phase con while pretending to work for multinational computer giants Microsoft.
The rogue PC engineers make unsolicited telephone calls to cure fictitious computer viruses followed by threats to make doorstep visits for payment.
One Denbigh woman - who asked to remain anonymous in fear for her own safety - received a phone call last week, with the caller claiming she had viruses on her computer and they could remove them for a fee of £99.
“But the man got quite angry when my card payment didn’t go through and said I should pay on my husband’s credit card instead,” she said.
“When I said no, he threatened that someone would come round to my house.”
The Free Press rang the scammers’ phone number and spoke to someone called Edwin, who claimed he was from Microsoft Windows Support.
He stated he couldn’t help with our problem before hanging up when a request was made to speak to his manager.
The 0203 number is recognised as belonging to a national scam operation.
The Free Press reported a similar scam in July where over 100 Denbighshire people had been targeted.
This week a Microsoft spokesman said: “We are aware of scams involving people claiming to be from Microsoft and needing remote access to consumers PCs.
“We would like to remind users of Microsoft software that the company does not directly contact consumers for any reason whatsoever.
“Do not to trust any caller claiming to be from Microsoft and asks for access to your home PC.”
Inspector Gary Kelly from North Wales Police said: “This type of crime is prevalent.
“I would advise anyone in these circumstances to call the police.
“If we are unaware of such matters we cannot monitor nor react which potentially makes life easier for the criminal to carry on with their behaviour.
“I would also advise people who have been threatened to make contact with their local police who can advise on the most appropriate course of action relevant to the particular circumstances."
If you have concerns contact North Wales Police on on 101 or 0845 6071001.