The OPP are warning the public to hang up the phone if you get a call out of the blue from someone claiming to work for Microsoft.
The OPP are warning the public about a popular computer scam that is starting to make the rounds again in our region.
How it works is you will get a call from someone claiming to work for Windows or Microsoft.
The scammer can be very convincing and they will tell you that they have detected a virus on your computer. To confirm the diagnosis, the caller asks you to open Windows Event Viewer on your machine to check if it is infected.
Once they get access to your machine, they are looking to do a number of things:
- Install an antivirus program on your computer, typically the kind that you can download for free from reputable companies and charge up to $250 for the service.
- Ask for your credit card details but install nothing. Your details might then be sold to other parties or used for fraudulent purposes.
- Install malware on your computer-this enables your computer to be controlled remotely for other illegal and harmful activities.
- Access and steal personal and financial details from your computer.
Scammers have also been known to make follow-up calls to people who initially fall victim to the scam. In these calls the scammer falsely claims to be from a foreign government, foreign law enforcement body, or from your bank, and offers to recover the money that you initially lost - in return for a fee.

Brant OPP Investigating Missing Person Case
Woodstonian Charged in Child Exploitation Case
Woodstock Home and Lifestyle Show Returns this Weekend
Nominations Open for Tillsonburg Citizen of the Year
PJHL Playoff Recap - March 17th
UPDATE: Video Footage Wanted for Death Investigation
MURC: Coming Soon to Ingersoll!
Candidate Information Session Coming Up
EZT Remembers Former Ward 3 Councillor
SWPH Issues Cold Weather Alert
UPDATE: Strong Winds Continue this Morning
Woodstock Resident Charged with Speeding
Interview with the Mayor - March 16th, 2026
Woodstock Driver Charged in Brant County
PJHL Playoff Recap - March 13th to March 15th
March Break Safety Tips from Oxford OPP
Oxford-Elgin Rainbow Research Project Underway
OPP: Plan Ahead Before St. Paddy's Day Festivities
Another Friday the 13th in Port Dover Today
Hansen Parents Visit Artemis II Explorers Club at IDCI
Comments
Add a comment