Waynesboro Police Warn Residents of Tech Support Scam on Facebook
Waynesboro Police are cautioning locals about a scam that preys on Facebook users by impersonating Microsoft tech support. Authorities have reported an incident where an individual in Franklin County was targeted.
According to police, the victim’s Facebook usage was interrupted when their screen suddenly went black. Shortly thereafter, a fraudulent Microsoft Windows security screen appeared, providing a phone number to call for assistance. When the individual contacted the number provided, they were falsely informed that their computer had been compromised by 34 hacks and that two unauthorized transactions had been attempted using their bank account.
The scammers, posing as Microsoft staff, instructed the victim to empty their savings account so that Microsoft could supposedly assist in creating a new account. The fraudsters even directed the victim to use a “machine” at Turkey Hill to deposit the funds in order to supposedly keep it safe. Waynesboro Police are urging anyone who suspects they have been a victim of a similar scam to contact them immediately.
“We want to make the public aware of this scam to ensure that no one falls victim to such deceptive practices,” stated a police representative. “Always be cautious of unsolicited calls or messages claiming to be from tech support, and never provide personal financial information or send money to unverified sources.”
Authorities also advise the public to avoid contacting any phone numbers or email addresses provided by these scammers and to never send gift cards or transfer funds.
To report such scams, contact the Waynesboro Police at 717-762-2131.
