With all the technology that we have at our fingertips, scammers and thieves are finding ways to implant viruses and malicious programs on our computers. These are some tips to remember to avoid becoming a victim of a computer scam or virus.

• When checking your email, only open the emails that you know. Check the sender before opening it. Most of the email sites and providers allow you to see the sender before opening the email. If you see an email that looks suspicious, don't open it. Emails are a common gateway for viruses and malware to access your computer.
• If your computer has been infected with what you think may be a virus, do not attempt to use it. Most viruses and malware will disguise themselves as fake security and virus protection programs. Simply by clicking a button to close the fake programs could activate it and give the program exclusive access to your computer. If you see a new security program that you did not approve, turn off the computer, take it to a certified repair store and allow them to remove the virus.
  
• If a virus has control of your computer, the fastest way to regain control is to unplug your computer from the internet. Most viruses are controlled either by a server or by a scammer and if you cut off their connection the virus will not be able to transmit anything it may be trying to steal.
• Most viruses and malware may block you out of using your computer until you call a phone number. This is a very strong sign that this is a scam. No reputable virus protection programs will block a user from accessing their computer. Do not call the number, do not give them information. Shut off your computer and take it to a repair store.
  
• Other viruses and malware may go completely unseen to the average computer user. It is always a good idea to have reputable and trustworthy security programs that will keep a constant lookout for malicious software.
• Make sure to only give out information to reputable and trustworthy sites. State/government websites, shopping sites, bank sites, and social media sites, etc. all use special security that allow them to keep all of your information safe.
• Sometimes even the reputable sites have breaches in security. In the event that a hack does happen the sites will notify you and inform you the proper action to take.
• Always remember when it comes to the internet it is better to be extra safe. If it seems to good to be true it probably is!

 

 

 Duke Energy is warning its customers about a scam targeting their bank accounts.

 The utility company announced Wednesday that customers have been receiving unsolicited phone calls recently from individuals pretending to be Duke Energy representatives.

 The scammer warns that Duke Energy will disconnect the customer’s electric service if they fail to make an immediate payment – usually within one hour.

 “This particular scam is troublesome especially knowing that the thieves are often taking advantage of senior citizens,” Duke Energy spokesperson Sally Thelen said.

 The caller will later instruct customers to buy a prepaid debit card then call him or her back to make a payment to Duke Energy.

 The scammer also asks customers for their prepaid debit card’s receipt number and PIN number, which grants instant access to the card’s funds.

 Duke officials said some of these scammers have recently adopted new tactics, using caller ID spoofing to replicate Duke Energy’s customer service number, or falsely claiming to be with a third party collection agency representing Duke Energy.

They can also become aggressive when questioned about the legitimacy of their calls, and some specifically target Spanish-speaking customers, restaurants and other small businesses, a Duke spokesperson said.

To combat this scam, Duke Energy launched a radio campaign Wednesday.

“Duke Energy is using as many channels as possible to educate customers about this scam,” Duke Energy Senior Vice President and Chief Customer Officer Gayle Lanier said in a release. “We urge customers who are contacted by individuals claiming to represent Duke Energy to listen for red flags, and hang up immediately if fraud is suspected.”

Duke Energy says it will never ask or require customers who have delinquent accounts to purchase a prepaid debit card. Customers can make payments online, by phone, automatic bank draft, mail or in person.

Duke Energy customers who have delinquent accounts will receive notifications from the company over the course of several weeks prior to electric service disconnection – never just a single notification one hour before disconnection, a spokesperson said.

The company is asking customers who suspect or experience fraud to call local police, then Duke Energy at 800-544-6900 to report the call.

*Duke Energy customers are receiving calls telling them their account is overdue and will be disconnected without payment over the phone with a prepaid debt card. 

Duke does not operate this way, and urge customers to contact their local police if they receive one of these calls.  

More Information can be found here.

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Elder Fraud

Criminals are particularly good at targeting the elderly in the hope of finding easy prey.  Fraud victims over 50 account for over 57% of all fraud and many members of the community are likely to have been or will be affected by elder fraud.  A clear guide to assist in dealing with this can be found here.  
 

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Securing Your Home

Break-ins happen much more frequently than most people think - and it's always a devastating experience. This comprehensive Guide to Securing Homes can be used to help promote safety and prevention awareness. The guide includes key steps and preventive measures that can go a long way in keeping home safe and secure while everyone is away.

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Greenhills Fraud Alert

One morning a Greenhills resident in the "I" section reported that she answered her door to find a tall slender white male with very dark hair.  He asked the resident for help with his towing bill.  He told her his truck was broke down and he needed a few extra dollars to cover the bill.  He showed her a flyer of his landscaping business, telling her he was a good guy that just needed some help. 

The con man actually made entry into the resident’s home by telling her that she dropped a five and a one dollar bill and asked if he could come in to pick it up for her.  She let him in and eventually gave him $30.00.  He took the flyer back, telling her it was his only flyer, then left saying he would return to pay her back.  When she looked to the side of her house, he was gone and there was no truck in sight. 

If this man is seen, call 911 immediately.  Never allow strangers to enter your home, and speak to them through a locked door whenever possible.   If you see something suspicious in your neighborhood, call the police immediately.  We would rather check out a situation that turns out to be legitimate than have you become a victim of crime! 

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Newest Attempt at Telephone Fraud

 The National Credit Union Administration recently warned consumers to beware of a new telephone fraud, known as a “vishing” scheme that is using the agency’s name in an attempt to obtain personal financial information.

 Several credit union members have been contacted by an automated phone call claiming to be from NCUA and notifying consumers their debit cards have been compromised. The call then asks the receiver to follow prompts, which request personal information, including sensitive financial data and personal identification information. 

Anyone contacted by this so-called “vishing” scheme should immediately contact NCUA’s Consumer Assistance Center Hotline at 800-755-1030 or by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to report the scam. Operators answer calls Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Eastern.

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$100 dollars at Walmart or Target for a buck? Don't Think So!

Area police agencies have received information concerning a reported scam.  Residents are receiving postcards in the local telling them that they are eligible to receive $100.00 in gift savings good at Walmart or Target.  There is a phone number on the card and when you call, the person on the other end says there is a $1.00 processing fee and then asks for a credit card (Visa or Master Card) number.   Be aware that this is a scam!  Never give out any of your credit card or banking information to people over the phone in circumstances like this.  If its sounds too good to be true - it probably is!

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