An elderly man from Modanville near Lismore has been defrauded of $800.
The man has accessed the internet from his home, and received a message from “Techzone USA” saying that his computer has a virus.
He was instructed to call an overseas number to have the virus removed.
When he called the number he provided his credit card number; $800 was quickly taken from his bank account.
Police carried a google search for “Techzone USA” and quickly discovered it is a scam operation.
Police said it was not the first time this has happened in the Northern Rivers, and no doubt there would be other attempts.
‘If your computer has a virus warning please have a qualified computer technician examine the computer or install authentic anti-virus software,’ police said.
‘Never call the number on the screen – and never give your personal details over the phone.’
You can report scams to www.scamwatch.gov.au or by calling 1300 795 995.
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