Two days ago, I called a number that I got from Google 1-888-866-2025. I thought I was speaking with Microsoft. I had a simple question, "What version of Windows 7 am I runnning 32 or 64 bit?" I could not find the info on my computer. I was told that I needed to let the agent remotely access my computer. He said his name was Ben. He had me log into a website, logmein.com. Once in the computer, he ran a scan. Most of the text was in black and white. Suddenly, it became red. He said that it was very bad and that someone had hacked into my network. He said there were over 2000 hits on my network. He circled in red my IP address and said this was proof that someone had hacked in. He explained that if I gave his company $199, he could protect my computer with a double firewall. He advised me to change all of my passwords as well.
I was very uncomfortable with the idea of giving money over the phone, but I was also scared because now I had let a stranger into my computer. I declined his offer and he detached from my computer. I shut down my computer and did not use it.
I called my provider, Verizon fios, and they put me on the phone with a tech. He changed my passwords and access to my network. He asked me to tell him exactly what happened. When I told him about the IP address, he said that IP address is the same for all Verizon customers, so that was not proof that my network had been compromised. He placed the highest security on my internet access.
I changed all of my passwords on AOL and Facebook and had my kids do the same for their accounts. I cancelled any credit cards I used to purchase online. I even changed my passwords for my online banking. I am also requesting a copy of my credit report
The tech from Verizon said I should Google the company, itechline, and see if there were any complaints. OMG there were 16. So I wanted to let other people know so they don't let anyone take money or take control of their computer. I don't yet know if there will be future problems for me. Good luck and be careful.
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