Another Phone Scam Hits Nassau

A phone scam where criminals get personal information by masquerading as computer specialists has hit Nassau County, according to the Nassau County District Attorney's office.

These "cybercriminals," claiming to be from Microsoft, have made unsolicited phone calls to residents and offering assistance with computers.

After gaining victims' trust, the scam artists convince people to install malware on computers. Once it is installed, they can hack into a victim's computer remotely and adjust settings to make the computer vulnerable to attacks. The criminals have then requested credit card information so they can bill for the services.

“Criminals are constantly looking for new ways to steal valuable personal information, and will say or offer anything to gain someone’s trust,” DA Kathleen Rice said.

Rice reminded residents that Microsoft does not make unsolicited calls to help with computer issues.

"When in doubt, just hang up," she said.

Anyone who believes they were a victim of this or any other fraud scam should report it to the district attorney's Criminal Complaint Unit at 516-571-3505.