Dear Editor,
Recently we have received several computers displaying a warning that the RCMP has blocked the computer because it was involved with child pornography. After a lot of research and communicating with several IT professionals around the country, we have found that it is a scareware virus. If your computer is infected, please call your local computer technician to help you remove this virus.
The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre released the following message: "Scareware" scam warning: The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre has been receiving reports from Canadians who say their computers are being frozen or they have been "locked out" of their computers after receiving pop-up messages warning them their computer has been associated with child pornography. These warning messages, which claim to be from the RCMP or CSIS, tell the recipient to pay $100 dollars via Ukash so their computer can be "unlocked". These types of messages, commonly known as scareware, are designed to create such shock and anxiety that victims respond by sending money quickly. If you receive one of these messages, please be aware that it is a scam – these messages are not being issued by the RCMP."
If you've been "locked out" of your computer, it is an indicator that your system may have been infected with malware and you will need to take steps to address this problem. In this particular scam, your webcam will also be infected and may take your picture without your knowledge. You will need to take steps to protect your privacy.
Helpful Tips for Safe Daily Computer Use:
• Never click on a pop up that claims your computer has a virus
• Update your anti-virus software often and scan your computer for viruses regularly
• Don't click on links or attachments in e-mails sent to you by someone you don't know
• Turn on your browser's pop-up blocking feature
• Never download antivirus software from a pop-up or link sent to you in an e-mail.
If you've received a scareware message, please contact your computer tech and Canadian Anti Fraud Centre (1-888-495-8501) to report it.
Sincerely,
Rahul Massey