By Vivian Tran
Publication Date: 2026-08-10 02:33:00
A fake virus alert on a computer screen may look like a routine tech problem, but New York City police say it can quickly turn into a devastating scam that drains older adults’ life savings.
The warning comes as investigators say losses tied to the scheme have climbed past $100 million, prompting authorities to urge seniors and their families to stay alert.
What’s happening?
Investigators say the scam often begins with a bogus tech warning.
According to ABC30, victims may see a pop-up pretending to be from Microsoft that falsely claims a computer has been infected and instructs them to call a number to unlock the device.
Giving in to that prompt can quickly expose far more than the computer itself.
Detective Emilio Gomez of the NYPD Financial Crimes Task Force Cybersquad said, “In this process, the victims get coerced to provide remote access to the computers, allowing these perpetrators to gain control.”
Investigators say victims who make the call are often talked into surrendering…
