An incident report provided by the RCMP, shows the "Microsoft technical scam," which has been around since about 2008, is just as dangerous today as it was all of those years ago, especially for the less tech-savvy among us. It's a good reminder to warn others, in particular seniors, that if they receive a phone call from someone claiming to be from Microsoft, their best line of defence is to hang up.
Below is the September incident report from the Sunshine Coast RCMP.
Impaired Driving
On Sept. 16 at 9:15 p.m., police were responded to a report that a vehicle had struck a telephone pole at Seamount Way and Gibsons Way — and then reversed up the curb and down the sidewalk.
Witnesses advised the male driver had been picked up by another vehicle and left the area. While police were on scene, the same driver who was the registered owner, returned stating the vehicle was his and he had returned to pick up his cell phone. The driver provided two "fail" readings on the alcohol screening device and received a driving prohibition and his vehicle was impounded for 30 days. BC Hydro was advised of the damage to the telephone pole.
Scam/Extortion
On Sept. 19, a Sechelt resident reported that she had received an email stating that malware had been installed on her computer and compromising photos and videos of her had been seized and would be released to her contact list if she did not send $2,000 in bitcoin within 24 hours.
The victim was immediately suspicious, did not reply to the demands and contacted police. Police confirmed this is a scam that has been trending recently in various communities, including the Sunshine Coast. To learn more about these common scams and the red flags to watch for, please visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
Scam
On Sept. 20, a Roberts Creek resident received a message on her computer, which said there was a virus on her computer and to contact Microsoft. After calling the number provided, scammers pretending to be technical support for Microsoft, gained access to her computer and were able to take $14,000 from her credit line and bank account.
Theft of boat trailer
At approximately 5 a.m., Sept. 24, an alert citizen called police to report a possible theft of a boat trailer in Halfmoon Bay. The citizen had heard the sound of a saw cutting metal and then observed a vehicle drive off with a boat trailer attached.
Due to the details provided to police and the short time delay, police were able to intercept a vehicle matching the description provided and recovered the stolen trailer. A 41-year-old Sunshine Coast resident, who is known to police, was arrested and charged with possession of property obtained by crime. The trailer was valued at approximately $15,000.
