Cortland Sheriff Warns of Tech Trouble Scam

Authorities have a warning about another scam hitting computer screens of residents in the Southern Tier and Central New York.

Complaints have been made recently involving a Tech Scam where the victim gets a pop-up message on their computer or in email that says “Threats Detected” and has a “tech line” phone number for assistance.  The caller is then told to make payments for services via gift cards.

Cortland County Sheriff’s Officials say they began getting complaints over the past several weeks about the online scam.

Authorities say, typically, the victim falling for the scam, makes a call to the listed number for the “security technician” who then gives the victim a line about services and asks for payment specifying the “customer” purchase gift cards.

Cortland County Sheriff’s Investigators say anyone getting this type of message should immediately become suspicious. They advise resident to not call that listed phone number as it is part of the scam.  Real security warnings and messages never ask to have someone call a land-line phone number.  Real messages will come through a user’s actual service account and should be easily recognized.

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If you think there could be a problem with your computer, you should update your computer’s software and run a scan.  You can also contact a reputable, licensed computer repair and service business in your community.

Anyone who has information regarding this scam or other unsolicited contact via computer, text or email should contact their local police agency.  Cortland residents can contact the Cortland County Sheriff’s Office at (607) 758-5599.

Remember, never give out personal or financial information over the phone, by email or text.