EVERETT, JULY 26: Everett Police has seen an increase in “Phantom Hacker” scams targeting the older populations, according to their Facebook.
The scams usually include either a pop-up window, call or a text message that alleges the receiver has been hacked. It then will prompt them to call technical support.
The scammers will impersonate technical support, financial institution employees, or government employees.
Phantom Hackers will direct victims to download software programs, allowing the hacker to have access over the victim’s computer.
Scammers will try to convince targets to transfer finances to law enforcement for safekeeping, according to the Facebook post.
Everett Police advise the community to be alert and not to click on unexpected pop-ups, or links sent via text message or email from unknown contacts. They also warn not to download software at the request of an unknown individual.
Law enforcement agencies will never request money via wire transfer or gift cards.
