The Danville Police Department warns citizens of ongoing scams targeting online users.
One of the known scams currently targets those with Apple devices, and tells users with a message that their device may be contaminated, and to call Apple Support. Users who call Apple Support through the link provided are then transferred to another individual who tells the victim their device is contaminated, and that they have access to the victim’s bank accounts.
This is a scam. Do not call a number that pops up promising to fix an issue. To circumvent this message, restart the device and it should begin working normally again. AppleCare can be reached at 1-800-APLCARE if the problem persists.
Do not purchase gift cards or give access to accounts to anyone over the phone. Do not for any reason download any desk or ultra viewer to your device.
Never click on a link that cannot be traced back to a legitimate source. Legitimate sources will never ask for information through a third party app.
Closely guard your financial and personal information. Financial institutions will not instruct you to download a third-party app.
Never under any circumstances give out login information. Safeguard all usernames and passwords.
Fraud isn’t age specific. Just as many young people, especially those not familiar with banking, are affected by scams as the elderly.
Never allow someone to convince you to purchase gift cards while you’re at work and to send your employer’s money to you.
Anyone who has information is asked to please contact the Danville Police Department by either calling patrol at 434-799-6510 option 4, investigations at 434-799-6508 option 1, and option 1 again, calling 911, contacting Crime Stoppers at 434-793-0000, approach any officer you see, through social media, via email crimetips@danvilleva.gov, or use our crime tips app CARE at www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=818#.