Warning to Worksop web-surfers after another computer is hacked

Sandra Ackerley from Kilton Road in Worksop is just the latest in a number of local computer-owners to be struck by con-men.

“I’m not the only one,” she said. “One or two of my friends have been done, and one of them has paid them money.”

“These people called me and told me that I had a virus on my computer that they could get rid of and that they would update my Microsoft software. They then expected me to pay £80 - £160.”

Sandra went on: “Since they took remote access of my computer, everything has been completely wiped and I’ve had to cancel all of my bank and credit cards.”

She continued: “They sounded so genuine, which is why it’s disgusting that they are hitting vulnerable people.”

“We all need our computers and I think more people need warning that their are con-men out there doing this.”

Back in February, The Worksop Guardian reported that many residents in and around Worksop had been struck by cold-calling con-men claiming to be from Microsoft and they say that they are monitoring a virus on your computer.

They then try to convince you to let them remotely control your computer so they can clean up the problems before asking for up to £200.

This was just a number of similar computer phone scams that have swept the area.

Samantha Hancock from Notts Police’s Pre-Crime Unit said: “We would like to make it clear that we would never ask the public for money under such circumstances and urge anyone who receives the pop-up to not to follow the payment instructions or call the number given.”

“They should definitely not pay any money or divulge personal details.”

She added: “There is a real warning here about internet security.”

“We all know that when we go online our security is compromised to a certain degree, but you should always exercise caution if you receive a cold call from someone who appears to know exactly what you have been searching for.”

Samantha added: “There is always a risk in accepting offers from cold callers in any event.”

If anyone has any info about a similar incident or has been targeted by hackers and con-men, you can call Notts Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.