DPD warns residents of phone scam

The Demopolis Police Department is warning residents of a recent computer scam that will allow a scammer to access people’s computers.

DPD Chief Tommie Reese said individuals are receiving calls from people posing as Microsoft or different computer companies who will tell them their computer has a virus.

He added that if victims stay on the line with scammers, they will be directed to go to their computer and bring up the task manager. Once in the task manager, victims are told to click on the “Processes” tab and be told that the tasks that are running are the cause of the problems.

The company will have victims download software onto the computer, which will give them remote access to it.

“If you don’t know the website, don’t go to it,” Reese said. “Only download software from secure websites. Just like with any other scam, don’t give any personal information to people you don’t know. In this case, don’t allow people to access your computer if you don’t know them.”

Reese offers some tips on how to avoid becoming a victim of scammers:

• Microsoft does not make house calls.
• Never let anyone direct you to download anything to your computer.
• Never give anyone remote access to your computer. If you do, you will no longer own that machine.
• Never wire money to a stranger.
• Don’t give out financial information
• Use tough-to-crack passwords.
• Never give out your Social Security number
• Don’t shop with unfamiliar online retailers
• Make sure the websites you visit are safe
• Only donate to known charities

Those with questions or concerns about scams are encouraged to contact DPD at (334) 289-3073.