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Ultra Viewer Scam

Anonymous
2024-04-06T01:47:55+00:00

Hello,

My dad recently fell for an UltraViewer scam. A pop up came up saying he had a virus and to call a number, he downloaded UltraViewer, and he was told something about how it appeared there were guns bought and pornography on the computer and the 'support' person he was speaking to gave him a number for the FBI and he provided his name and last four of his social security to said person. I don't have the full story yet, but my understanding is that Ultra Viewer was downloaded, and they scammer was provided access to the computer. On the phone he did not provide any personal information aside from his name and last four of his social security.

I am concerned as this happened three days ago and I don't know if these folks have had access to the computer the whole time. I believe a number of passwords are saved under their password manager. I also believe there is a saved copy of tax documents in their documents folders, which may have the full SSNs and bank account information.

Even though no information was provided over the phone, is there any way to see if they accessed documents on the computer?

What next steps should I take to address this issue?

Thank you!

Windows for home | Windows 10 | Security and privacy

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  1. Anonymous
    2024-06-25T16:32:30+00:00

    Using MapQuest (as I do often) I got virus w/screen lock. Tried some tricks I know and my new laptop you can't take the battery out easily.

    Reluctantly I called the Support Number (845.261.8626) and reached a (non-English speaking person). He knew how to UNlock my screen (Hold 'ESC' down 5 seconds). The wanted me to goto the RUN Command to download 'www.alterviewer.net).  I had it typed in and asked him Why I needed to download this software. His reply > How else would I be able to reach the Microsoft server to resolve my issue.

    I was waiting for a request to do something that you shouldn't do when YOU call a random phone number... NEVER!!! Download software at their request. As I was hanging up with this person, I told him I had their number and would call back if I needed their support, I realized I had control of my laptop again. I googled alterviewer scams and found these threads. Hope someone can get this information out to others!!!!

    I do have a data background and was looking hard at this support person and what he was asking for.

    20+ people found this answer helpful.
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  2. Ivan B 108.7K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2024-04-06T02:29:57+00:00

    Hi ,

    I am Ivan, I will help you with this.

    In an extreme situation like this, I first recommend taking another computer that has not been accessed and changing all passwords that may have been saved in the password manager, checking the system 2 phases of the Microsoft account.

    The second step as an extreme precaution would be to format the computer to erase any trace that the attackers may have left from the program and it is possible that they may have copied documents since Ultraviewer has a file transfer system.

    Thirdly, open a case with the local police.

    Format the PC using the Windows USB method.

    https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/ajud...

    To make a report more details

    Visit the Microsoft Contact Us website:

    http://support.office.com/home/chat

    1. Type "Unable to access account" and click Get Help.
    2. Click Login and Contact Support at the bottom of the page.
    3. Sign in with your Microsoft account.
    4. Under Products and Services, select Microsoft 365 and Office Option.
    5. In the category, select Manage account security.
    6. Click "Chat with a support agent".

    Hope this helps.

    If you find the answer helpful, please mark it as an answer.

    Independent Advisor - Community

    Thanks

    10+ people found this answer helpful.
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  3. Anonymous
    2024-04-07T13:21:57+00:00

    Thank you, Ivan, I very much appreciate your response!

    6 people found this answer helpful.
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  4. Ivan B 108.7K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2024-04-07T18:00:08+00:00

    Hi ,

    I'm glad I can help, have a good week and you can always count on the Microsoft community.

    Independent Advisor - Community

    Thanks

    2 people found this answer helpful.
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