The Cambridge Police Department has issued a warning about a prevalent "Tech-Support Scam" encircling the Cambridge area and its suburbs. In these scams, individuals are contacted via pop-up messages or emails that seemingly come from a tech support service, urging the user to dial a specific number. Upon calling, individuals are duped into granting remote access to their computers and are instructed to log into their financial accounts, a maneuver that compromises their personal data.
Victims are told that their money is at risk and are manipulated to securely transfer funds. Means for these transfers include, but aren't limited to, gift cards, cryptocurrency like Bitcoin, wire transfers, and even withdrawing cash to be mailed or picked up by a "courier." Some scammers go so far as to claim affiliation with law enforcement agencies to authenticate their deceit, as noted in a statement from the Cambridge Police Department.
With this type of scam on the rise, residents are implored to remain vigilant. The Cambridge Police advocate for the maintenance of up-to-date anti-virus and malware protection on all devices. Anyone who believes they've been targeted by this scam should contact the police immediately. The Cambridge Police Department reminds the public that credible tech support companies or law enforcement will never ask for payments in the form of cryptocurrency, gift cards, cash, or precious metals.
Information concerning these tech support scams can be pivotal in thwarting further incidents. Thus, the Cambridge Police encourage anyone with knowledge of such scams to get in touch by calling 617-349-3300. For those wishing to provide details anonymously, there are multiple channels available: a call to the Cambridge Police Anonymous Crime Tip Hotline at 617-349-9151, the MyPD mobile app, and through texting 847411 with the prefix TIP650, along with their message. Tips can also be sent via email through the department's tips page.
