ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) —
Scammers pretending to be “Microsoft employees” already have stolen more than $50,000 from victims in the Asheville area, and police are warning people to be on guard.
The Asheville Police Department issued a warning Tuesday morning about a sophisticated fraud scam in which suspects hack into people’s personal computers and then dispatch a fake “Microsoft employee” to the people’s homes to collect money in person.
“This method has made the scam particularly effective, exploiting individuals’ trust and vulnerability,” police said in the release.
According to police, two area residents already have been taken for losses totaling $50,000.
Police spokesperson Samantha Booth said that in two cases in the Asheville area, both customers were working online when their computers froze. They received “pop-up” notices telling them they needed to contact “Microsoft” for assistance. That led them to contact the scammers, who then sent fake employees to the people’s homes to collect money.
“The vehicle used in these incidents is described as a dark silver or gray Toyota Highlander, which may have damage to the front right quarter panel,” the release states.
Asheville Police released a photo of a person they identified as a suspect.
People with information about the incidents or the suspect vehicle are urged to contact local law enforcement immediately.
“We urge residents to exercise caution and verify the identity of anyone claiming to be a representative of Microsoft or any other company,” the release states. “Confirming such representatives’ credentials through official channels before engaging with them or providing any money is crucial.”