Remote desktop takeover scam tricking people into giving up personal details. Here's how to avoid it
Toronto police are warning people about an ongoing "remote desktop takeover" scam that is leading to hackers being able to access your personal information and steal money.
Police said they have been contacted by victims who were tricked into allowing scammers access to their computers remotely.
It appears the scammers are contacting people telling them about a bank security issue, software fix, investment opportunity, or asset recovery.
The victim is encouraged by the scammers to download a free app called Anydesk, which allows the scammer to remotely access your computer.
The victim is then asked to log into their bank or investment account. The scammer then uses this opportunity to withdraw assets from your account, police say.
Police said since people often have their login information stored inside their web browser, the scammers are able to see it when certain websites are loaded.
This allows the scammer unfettered access to the victim's online information, police say.
The Toronto Police Service would like to make the public aware of the existence of this scam and urge people to take precautions to protect their assets and sensitive materials stored on their computers.
Victims are encouraged to file a report with their local police department, police said.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-5100.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Orca calf that was trapped in B.C. lagoon for weeks swims free
An orca whale calf that has been stranded in a B.C. lagoon for weeks after her pregnant mother died swam out on her own early Friday morning.
King Charles' cancer treatment progressing well, says Buckingham Palace
King Charles III’s doctors are 'sufficiently pleased' with his cancer treatment and he is expected to return to public-facing duties, Buckingham Palace announced on Friday.
AFN chief says Air Canada offered a 15% discount after her headdress was mishandled
After the Assembly of First Nations' national chief complained to Air Canada about how staffers treated her and her ceremonial headdress on a flight this week, she says the airline responded by offering a 15 per cent discount on her next flight.
Sophie Gregoire Trudeau on navigating post-political life, co-parenting and freedom
Sophie Gregoire Trudeau says there is 'still so much love' between her and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, as they navigate their post-separation relationship co-parenting their three children.
DEVELOPING Bird flu outbreaks: WHO weighs in on public health risk
The current overall public health risk posed by the H5N1 bird flu virus is low, the World Health Organization said on Friday, but urged countries to stay alert for cases of animal-to-human transmission.
76ers All-Star centre Joel Embiid says he has Bell's palsy
Philadelphia 76ers All-Star centre Joel Embiid has been diagnosed with Bell’s palsy, a form of facial paralysis he says has affected him since before the play-in tournament.
Island near Mull of Kintyre for sale for US$3.1 million
An idyllic 453-acre private island is up for sale off the west coast of Scotland and it comes with sandy beaches, puffins galore, seven houses, a pub, a helipad and a flock of black-faced sheep.
Regina police officer injured after being accidentally shot by fellow officer's gun
An investigation is underway after a Regina police officer was accidentally shot by a fellow officer’s gun during the search of a house early Friday morning.
Taylor Swift dons Montreal designer's dress in 'Fortnight' video
A pair of Montreal designers' work has now been viewed over 41 million times. Taylor Swift dons a Victorian throwback black gown in her latest music video, 'Fortnight', designed by UNTTLD due Simon Belanger and Jose Manuel Saint-Jacques.