Yesterday I tried to log into my Facebook account and a small banner appeared, saying that my account was compromised, with all my personal information up for grabs. By all indications, it was from Microsoft, with a link to their tech support. I contacted them, and this guy answered. He told me not to worry, they will help. Okay. He asked permission to take control over my computer, and I consented. The cursor moved. A lot. He asked for my name, address and phone number. I gave it to him. He then said he would run a virus scan and returned with the warning that my computer was totally infected. Mmmm hmm. He then offered a total protection plan, two years for I think for $200. I roared and unplugged the computer. When I got online again, this bulldog would appear on my screen with the words "Durr durr" and the dog shaking his head violently. I facepalmed.
About then, I got a call. It was him. I am sorry to say I spoke like a Hollywood longshoreman, saying that I would spend the rest of my life hunting and tracking him down, and hung up.
I started my computer again, and this notepad thing popped up and it said "Are you there?" I said Yeah and asked for his name and phone number and said I would call to confirm his identity. I did, and guess what? It WAS Microsoft!
Imagine my confusion!
He said not to worry, he will help, so I let him.
When he was done, I thanked him.
Right now my old computer is good as brand-new. I discovered that he installed an Advanced Password Manager that updates at least twice a day and something called SUPERAntiSpyware. I am not exactly computer savvy, so I will just accept the fact that my ole puter is purring along.
I just will not think of the bulldog. Why worry about things you have no control over?