Today on Bud’s #WeeklyGeekOut . . . ever had “Microsoft” or the “RCMP” or the “Canada Revenue Agency” take over your computer and ask for money? SCAM! Here’s how Bud recovered, and so can you. =) webmeister Bud
Should this happen to you:
- Remain calm. =)
- DO NOT CALL ANY NUMBER ON THE SCREEN.
- DO NOT CLICK ANY LINKS.
- DO NOT DOWNLOAD OR RUN ANY SOFTWARE.
- DO NOT PAY ANY MONEY.
Here’s how to try to escape a screen lock scam:
- If there’s a loop of an alarm sound, or a recorded voice telling you to do stuff, mute your computer.
- Hover your mouse cursor over the “OK” or “Close” button on the pop-up box which usually accompanies a scammy page.
- Hold the Ctrl (Cmd on Mac) key on your keyboard with your pinky.
- Hover over the W key with your index finger.
- As quickly as you can, first click the “OK” or “Close” button on the pop-up box, then press W (while Ctrl is still held).
Ctrl+W is a keyboard shortcut to close the active browser window, and that can usually only be done once the dialogue box (the pop-up with the “OK” or “Close” button) isn’t front and centre.
Stay safe out there. CONSTANT VIGILANCE! =)
Explore all of the #geekoutbasics posts for some general computer safety tips from webmeister Bud!
