Once opened, victims will find what appears to be an official copy of Microsoft’s expensive Office Professional Plus software, which even includes a license code and branded USB stick. This package usually costs over £400 and it’s easy to see why those who receive the gift will be tempted to start using it. However, this is just an elaborate scam with anyone plugging the dongle into their computer soon seeing a warning notice saying their device contains malware. A phone number for the Microsoft support line is also displayed with users being asked to call the hotline as soon as possible. Although everything seems real, callers are directed to a fake representative who claims to fix the problems for a fee. If a victim agrees, the agent takes over their computer remotely and removes the so-called malware once payment is made. READ MORE: Android Urgent Alert For All Users! Delete these trusted apps NOW The elaborate scam, first reported by Sky News, could leave consumers seriously out of pocket. Microsoft has since confirmed that these attacks are taking place with the company telling Sky that it has now launched an internal investigation into the suspicious packets. “Microsoft is committed to helping protect our customers. We are taking appropriate steps to remove any suspected unlicensed or counterfeit products from the market and to hold accountable those who target our customers,” a spokesperson said. “We would like to assure all users of our software and products that Microsoft will never send you unsolicited packages or contact you for any reason.” With so many people now savvy to online threats, hackers are clearly trying new tactics to steal money, and it’s vital that you don’t be tempted to install any software that walks through your front door unless you’ve ordered it from an official store. Speaking about the attack, Jake Moore, Global Cyber Security Advisor at ESET, said: “This is a very clever but simple scam that has the potential to trick many people into handing over access to their computer unwittingly. The effort that went into making these fake products demonstrates the lengths cybercriminals are willing to go to get their hands on computers and scam people out of money. “If you ever receive a product in the post on a USB, stop and think about why you received it, and if you didn’t order it, keep it off your computer.”
