Windows Tech Support Scam

kman005 · 20 Dec 2015

Yesterday I was called by a Windows Tech Support Scam. I am not very tech-savvy and I was gullible and allowed them to remotely access my computer. When they asked for money that is when I wised up, but that was too late. I already gave them access to my computer.

I changed my bank account passwords. I loaded my files onto an external hard drive. I plan to return my computer to its original state, but I first wanted to find out what is to stop the scammers from just accessing my computer again?

Any help

MoxieMomma · 20 Dec 2015

Hi:

Yes, it is a busy season for such scammers.
I got such a call on my mobile phone a week ago, spoofing a "legit" number in PA on caller ID.
I strung the caller along for a while.
He hung up when I volunteered to give him my credit card info so that he could "remote in" to fix my "viruses".

Anyway:
I hope you changed all your confidential info from a different, known-clean computer?

Also:
Here are a few resources:

I Just Fell For a PC Support Scam, Now What?
Tech support scams costing computer users
FTC cracks down on tech support scams
Beware of US-based Tech Support Scams

You might want to head over to one of several, busy, reputable computer disinfection fora for a guided, expert look at the system.
The trained malware helpers will know which tools to use, in which order, to check the system for hidden malware.

Thanks,

MM

Alejandro85 · 23 Dec 2015

Once such an attack has been carried out, the only way to regain control of the affected computer is a clean install. Simply backup everything important and reformat the whole thing. In its current state, the computer is compromised and not safe to use.

Changing the passwords is a good step, just make that from a known-safe computer and not your main one.