Warning of a “Comcast” scam

From Patch, 10/15/2021 “

Local residents are seeing their bank accounts drained….

EAST BAY, CA — Scam artists pretending to be from Comcast are tricking people into allowing remote access to their computers, which gives them access to bank accounts and other sensitive information.

The Alameda Police Department has taken multiple reports of elderly people falling for the “convincing scam.”

Here is how it works, according to Alameda Police, “Unsuspecting victims reported receiving calls from a person claiming to be a representative of Comcast. During the conversations, the ‘representative’ informed the victims that their internet speed had slowed and maintenance was required. Once convincing the victims of the call’s legitimacy, the ‘representative’ obtained remote access to their computers. Under the guise of troubleshooting, the scammer discreetly accessed their personal information. Days later, the victims realized their bank accounts had been compromised.”

Police emphasize that Comcast will never call you to request sensitive information over the phone including passwords, account numbers, or social security information.

The police department offers these safety tips:

  • Be cautious of unsolicited calls and emails.
  • Be wary of callers who demand immediate action.
  • If you are uncertain of the call’s validity, hang up and call the number listed on the company’s verified website.
  • Educate potentially vulnerable loved ones on how to protect themselves.
  • Block unwanted calls and text messages.
  • Register with the Do Not Call Registry. Registered numbers should only receive calls from companies you do business with or that you permit to contact you.
  • Report fraudulent calls to the Do Not Call Registry. DoNotCall.gov or call 1-888-382-1222.
  • File a complaint with the FCC.
  • If you are the victim of a crime, file a report with local police.