02034685361

I just had a rather suspicious phone call that reeked of call centre tactics. The chap on the other end claimed that my computer was apparently sending distress signals to Windows regarding some dodgy files. He introduced himself as being from a company called UTC (Universal Tech Care). When I probed him about how he acquired my number-seeing as it’s not linked to my computer-I got a rather vague answer about it not being an issue for them. They've got a website that seems quite official, but since I hadn’t reached out to them for any assistance, I definitely wasn’t inclined to grant him remote access to my computer.

Kindly place the phone onto our collection device.

WARNING: SCAM IN PROGRESS! Right, folks, it’s time for a heads-up about a rather distressing scam that seems to be making the rounds again. The usual culprits-often individuals sporting a pronounced Indian accent-ring you up pretending to be from Microsoft or one of its subsidiaries. They’ll claim that they've picked up alarming signals through their servers indicating that your computer is under siege or has fallen prey to a nasty virus or malware. They'll likely instruct you to delve into something called 'Event Viewer'. Now, here’s the trick: this tool merely showcases a plethora of Errors and Warnings-essentially a catalogue of minor issues that routinely crop up on any PC. Their aim is to terrify you into believing that these entries (my own tally is sitting at around 2,500) signify dire threats like viruses or external attacks. They’ll then try to persuade you to download a specific software-currently, it appears to be AMMYY. While Ammyy is, in its essence, a legitimate program for remote control, it can be exploited. Once installed, the scammer gains unfettered access to your computer, manipulating your mouse, opening and closing windows at will. What unfolds next is quite sinister; they could potentially fish for your banking details, rummage through your personal files, or even plant malicious Trojans. Ultimately, they’ll pressure you into purchasing one of their 'protection packages', which could set you back hundreds of pounds over several years. These con artists can be incredibly pushy and rather unpleasant. It’s crucial to alert your friends and family, particularly those who may not be too tech-savvy. I’ve seen too many accounts out there where innocent individuals have been hoodwinked, losing hefty sums of money to these crooks. Don’t let these deceptive swindlers triumph! If you find yourself on the line with them, tell them you’ll get back to them, obtain their phone number and website, and ensure you report them to the authorities. Alternatively, if you fancy a bit of fun, why not lead them on? The challenge is to waste as many of their minutes as possible! They often operate under names like UniversalTechCare (dot com) or CreativeSolutionsOnline (dot net). Stay vigilant!

I too had a call from this number, with a bloke named Rick from Universal Tech Care on the line. He was angling to take over my computer, but naturally, I told him that wasn’t happening! When I quizzed him about the business, he mentioned they were based at 14 Hanover Street, which, as many know, is just a mail drop and not an actual office. I've gone ahead and flagged this with the Telephone Preference Service since I'm on their register.

I received a call from this number, and it sounded like a call centre. The chap on the other end claimed to represent a company that had been alerted about harmful files on my computer and mentioned I could check them in the Event Viewer. He went on to say that every time I encountered an error message and selected the option to send a report, they would be notified. He assured me he could sort out the issues right away. While his story seemed somewhat credible, there was no way I was going to give access to my computer to someone just because they rang me out of the blue.

I've been bombarded with around seven calls daily from this number, and I've decided to ignore them entirely. Plus, I’m listed as ex-directory!

I’ve just had a run-in with these people too! As a professional in the IT sector, I can assure you that the twaddle they were spouting was completely absurd. Much like others have mentioned, they claimed my computer had been sending them error messages and needed their 'expert' assistance. It’s preposterous! No machine just sends out emails to obscure companies-if there’s an issue, it goes directly to Microsoft, and I can guarantee that this mob isn't connected to them in the slightest! I innocently inquired how they had managed to ascertain what was happening on my system, and - poof! - they hung up. From reading others’ experiences, it seems their goal is to gain access to your device. Once they have that, there’s no telling what they might do. They could plant keyloggers or all sorts of nefarious software. Imagine them snooping on you as you access your online banking! Honestly, steer clear and don’t ever allow these characters into your computer system. It’s nothing but a scam and the potential for exploitation is alarming!