RCMP continue to field multiple computer scam calls

UPDATE: Jan. 11, 2013 – 9:31 a.m.

RCMP say they received more than 250 calls regarding the Ransomeware scam yesterday and continue to receive more. They are asking the public only to report an incident if they are a victim of fraud. Simple reports of finding this form of malware on a computer should be directed to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre 888-495-8501. Infected computers may need to be fixed by a technician.

Jan. 10, 2013 – 11:05 a.m.

Kelowna RCMP have been receiving a large number of calls this morning about a computer scam called "Ransomware" or "Scareware".

Computers lock people out and present a pop-up warning that their computer has been frozen by police for a criminal investigation. The pop-up sometimes lists possible offences or may be specific to a special offence like child pornography or illegal downloading. The message then requests money through a payment service provider to unlock the computer.

The RCMP is warning the public this scam is active and police or other government agencies are not doing this. People should not send money if this happens to their home computer. The scam is designed to create panic and anxiety so the victim will send money quickly. Your computer will not be unlocked if you pay money and you'll never get the money back.

Computers infected with malware need to have this problem addressed. More information is available on the Canadian Anti-Fraud website.

Tips to protect yourself:

• Never click on a pop up that claims your computer has a virus.
• Update your anti-virus software often and scan your computer for viruses regularly.
• Don't click on links or attachments in emails sent to you by someone you don't know.
• Turn on your browser's pop-up blocking feature.
• Never download anti-virus software from a pop-up link sent to you in an email.
• If you've received a ransomware/scareware message, please contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre 888-495-8501 to report it. If you have been the victim of a fraud, please contact your local RCMP Detachment or police force of jurisdiction.