Cyber Attack

[coming42]

On Saturday, after clicking on a photo on Facebook, my computer froze with an alarming on screen message from Apple that my MacBook had been infected with a Trojan Horse and to call a toll-free number immediately at Apple Cyber Security. The technician that I spoke with was calm, authoritative and considerate - asked for remote access to my

Comments

[lsanderson]

I suspect you've been phished, and that you responded and paid the phisher that put that full screen picture on your laptop. Please Google the firm and do not take their recommendations without a thorough review. (I've triggered the scam with a Windows computer.)

[coming42]

Not sure what you mean by 'I've triggered the scam with a windows computer'?

Scam

[lsanderson]

I've seen a similar message on a Windows computer. I just restarted the computer and it was fine. It's just a picture, not an actual attack.

Re: Scam

[lsanderson]

Those nice techs you were talking to were not Apple employees, they were the scammers robbing you, and I would be worried about what they did, if anything, to your computer.

Re: Scam

[coming42]

I have installed Avast Premium Security. It has done a thorough check of my comp and found nothing untoward, including a ransomware shield. I feel more comfortable now.

Re: Scam

[thewayne]

I agree with @Isanderson. It's easy to link a picture to pop up another image that looks authentic. I've never heard of Apple Cyber Security. I would suggest calling your bank and putting a temporary freeze on your credit card, possibly getting that card cancelled and a new one issued and call Apple support UK at 0800 048 0408 and talk to them.

Re: Scam

[coming42]

Been through everything with my bank, card blocked, new card will be issued.

Re: Scam

[lsanderson]

I'd also dispute the charge as fraudulent. It may not get your money back, but it's worth trying.

Re: Scam

[thewayne]

And it might lead into an investigation to shut down the account that the money went in to!

Re: Scam

[coming42]

My bank has checked the originator (company) and it appears that they are legit. I have received an email from them to state that my full refund has been processed. We shall see. If it isn't received within seven working days my bank/Visa will initiate recovery proceedings.

Re: Scam

[thewayne]

I'm really sorry you got caught up in this. These rats are quite good at making convincing and scary-looking web pages to get people to call in, and it's a scam