A Lincoln man is out thousands of dollars after falling victim to a computer pop up scam. LPD Captain Todd Kocian says the family of the 67 year old man initially reported him missing.
“Officers arrived at the residence and found he had returned and learned he had been out buying gift cards. He received a message on his computer saying there was an issue with his anti-virus subscription. The male then called a number provided and allowed the unknown party he was speaking with access to his computer and bank account,” Kocian says.
“He was then instructed to purchase gift cards, which he did totaling over $4,000.” The man gave the gift card numbers to the scammer. At this point LPD says the only known loss is that of the gift cards.
“We would like to remind everyone that reputable companies will not ask for access to your personal computer and bank account, nor should they take payments in the form of gift cards. We should always be suspicious when asked to purchase gift cards for somebody we don’t know and haven’t physically met.”