Browser Hijacking
The Call
This is a trend that is becoming more and more common. You receive a phone call – the person on the other end tells you that there are problems on your PC that can be solved if you let them remote control your PC to fix it.
What Happens
They typically will walk you through a short installation routine of remote control software. Then, they can “drive” your PC from wherever they are. They will open a few windows and show you a few processes that are running on your PC. Usually, they are simply showing you a legitimate list of programs in your PC’s task manager, telling you that there are problems. They will then try to sell you a support plan and ask for money to repair it (typically a credit card number)
Do Not Fall for This Scam
No PC support company or manufacturer will EVER proactively call you to help (some callers even claim to be with Microsoft). Your best bet is to hang up on the person, and, if you have let then into your PC, reboot to disconnect them completely.