Good afternoon, 

Some of the most common scams reported to Action Fraud involve criminals connecting remotely to a victim’s device. 

It may begin with a browser pop-up asking you to call the number listed, or a call from someone claiming to be from your bank/internet provider. They may say that they need to connect to your computer to fix the issue, or in order to cancel a fraudulent transaction on your account. 

Regardless of the narrative, their goal is to take your money and access your personal/financial information. 

Do not allow remote access to your devices following an unsolicited call, text message or browser pop-up. 

If you believe your device has been infected with a virus or some other type of malware, follow the National Cyber Security Centre’s guidance on recovering an infected device: https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/guidance/hacked-device-action-to-take

If this isn't relevant to you, please share it with someone who might be interested.

If you've been affected by a crime please contact Victim Care Hub for free, confidential support: Home - Hampshire Victim Care Hub (hampshireiowvictimcare.co.uk) or phone 0808 178 1641

If you would like to report a crime anonymously please contact: Independent UK charity taking crime information anonymously | Crimestoppers (crimestoppers-uk.org) or phone 0800 555 111

Hampshire Alerts is not a crime reporting portal – please do not report crime here.

If you realise you’ve been scammed and wish to report a fraud that has already happened, please report it to Action Fraud either phone 0300 123 2040 or online at: Action Fraud

If a crime is in progress, and/or you are in fear for yourself or someone else, and/or there is evidence in situ that could be damaged/destroyed, please phone 999 immediately. 

Otherwise, report online, or find out about other ways to report a crime at: Report a crime | Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary

Thank you – Fraud Safeguarding Team