RCMP in Windsor are warning the public of a computer scam related to pop-up messages warning that the computer has been associated with pornography.
Windsor officers say they have received several complaints from individuals advising that their computers have been frozen, or that they have been "locked out" of their computers after the message.
The warning messages, claiming to be from the RCMP, tell the recipient to pay a $100 fine via Ukash so the computer can be "unlocked.” Another warning says if the "fine" is not paid within 72 hours, criminal proceedings will commence against the user.
The scareware messages are designed to create such shock and anxiety that victims respond by sending money quickly, say police.
RCMP officers say if you receive one of these messages, it is a scam and has not been issued by police. They are telling the public to not pay the $100 fee. There are other ways to address malware problems.
The RCMP offers the following tips to help keep your computer protected:
-Never click on a pop-up that claims your computer has a virus;
-Update your anti-virus software often and scan your computer for viruses regularly;
-Do not click on links or attachments in e-mails sent to you by someone you don't know;
-Turn on your browser's pop-up blocking feature;
-Never download anti-virus software from a pop-up link sent to you in an e-mail.
If you have received a "scareware" message, you can report it to your local police office and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501.
