Don't click!

In the past 3 days, I've had two people tell me they clicked on a pop-up on their computer and are now suffering the consequences.

I've said it before but I feel this needs to be repeated:

Never click on a pop-up that warns your computer has been infected and don't call the number provided in that pop-up!  NEVER.  

Don't call, don't give your credit card, don't believe what you are told IF you do call that number.  It is a scam!  If you (or someone you know) falls prey to this scam:

1) Immediately shut down the computer (don't just close the top of your laptop).  If you can't do a normal shutdown, press and hold on the start button until the computer shuts down.

2) Then call the number on the back of your credit card immediately to tell the company what you have done.They will then either close the credit card or put a note on your account to prevent further fraudulent use.

3) When you start the computer back up, it should be fine, but you might want to run your anti-virus software.

Likewise, if you see a pop-up ad offering you "cheaper insurance in the Emporia area" or something similar, do not click on it, unless you want to be barraged with all sorts of junk mail (some of which you may not want anyone else to view!) It is usually just an attempt at collecting some of your personal information.

We can't live without the internet, so we have to stay vigilant in our use of it.