Jefferson City police warn residents of phone scam involving virus protection packages for computers

Jefferson City police are warning residents of a phone scam involving virus protection packages.

Police said the suspect identifies himself as a Microsoft or DirectTV representative. During the calls, packages for service to the victim’s computer are offered, with the focus on virus protection.

Officers said the suspect will request remote access to the victim’s computer and will walk them through the steps to begin the process.

Victims accidentally expose personal and private information, such as financial records that may be stored on the computer.

With the victim’s information, the suspect opens accounts online and processes transactions through whatever financial information source they happen to get.

Police are reminding residents that fraud attempts come in all forms and to always be cautious.

Officers ask residents to report anything suspicious to the local authorities.