SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) - Sioux Falls police are investigating a fraud case involving a victim who lost $45,000. Police say the individual got a call from someone claiming to be from Microsoft.
The caller said they found a problem with the victim’s computer and gave instructions on how to allow the caller to gain remote access.
Once the caller had access to the computer, the scammer had access to all the victim’s information.
Police Sgt. Sean Kooistra said that because the victim was afraid of losing that information, the victim followed the caller’s directions and ended up giving the caller $45,000, the Argus Leader reported.
“It’s so important that people understand that when they receive phone calls from people identifying themselves being from Microsoft or any type of explanation allowing them access to their computer, it is absolutely fraudulent,” Kooistra said. “Please do not fall for that or find yourself in a position where you don’t know what to do.”
If residents do get a suspicious call, they should stop all communication with the caller and alert police, he said.
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