Entered homes and transferred significant funds
The man claimed to be a Microsoft employee and said he had come to the home to assist the residents with computer issues. Composite image/mbl.is/Eggert/Colourbox
The Capital Area Police are investigating a fraud case in which an Icelandic man visited the homes of elderly residents in the district, claimed to be a Microsoft employee, and said he was there to help them.
He was let inside and given access to a computer, where he transferred substantial sums from the residents’ bank accounts, according to a police statement.
A serious development
“This marks a serious development from the typical ‘Microsoft phone scam,’ as fraudsters now appear to be using local individuals to enter people’s homes rather than calling,” the police said.
They also ask anyone who may have been subjected to similar fraud to come forward.
Important to stay vigilant
Police urge everyone to be on guard against such scams and remind the public that Microsoft employees:
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Never show up uninvited at private homes
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Never ask for access to your computer, phone, iPad, or bank accounts
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Never request personal information over the phone
If you’ve been a victim of fraud:
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Contact your bank immediately
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Contact the police at +354 444-1000
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Gather all information about the incident and send it to cybercrime@lrh.is
