I'm from Microsoft, there's something wrong with your computer

[tomtomagain]

Personally I'd get her BT number changed or at least get BT to block all unknown callers. These scum are ruthless and will repeatedly target vulnerable people.

Then, as said by others, check through the files to see what they could have found. Change passwords, inform the bank.

I have a friend who is a smart guy. He got cleaned out by fraudsters who gained access to his details and then impersonated the police AND his bank to get his pin numbers and other details.

They were very convincing and it took him a few days to realise that he hadn't actually contacted his bank or the police but the fraudsters themselves.

I would take this breach very seriously.

( and no ... this "friend" wasn't me ).

[DimPrawn]

Right.

1. Smash the computer with hammers then burn the pieces.
2. Get a new identity, complete with fake history, passport, drivers licence.
3. Move to a safe house, in a foreign country. Never reveal your true identity. Never contact anyone you knew previously.
4. Buy a Mac.

Sorted.

[mudskipper]

I've told her to cancel her cards. I'm going round shortly and will see what (if anything) I can find.

[mudskipper]

Personally I'd get her BT number changed or at least get BT to block all unknown callers. These scum are ruthless and will repeatedly target vulnerable people.

We bought a call blocker when she kept buying vitamins...! She just has to press a button, and it cuts the caller off and blocks the number. But she doesn't like to be rude...

[NickFitz]

I've told her to cancel her cards. I'm going round shortly and will see what (if anything) I can find.

If she's paid them anything, you need to let the credit card company or bank know ASAP so they can cancel the payment - it should count as a fraudulent transaction, so she should get her money back.

[mudskipper]

If she's paid them anything, you need to let the credit card company or bank know ASAP so they can cancel the payment - it should count as a fraudulent transaction, so she should get her money back.

She hasn't (knowingly) - he didn't ask for her card details which makes me think he was up to mischief of a different sort.

On my way now...

[EternalOptimist]

check for malware as well as virus. I use TDSS killer
which is free

[WordIsBond]

Best of luck and let us know if you learn anything helpful in case we have to help someone down the line.

[suityou01]

Malware Bytes ftw!

[FatLazyContractor]

A damsel in distress and so many helpful replies