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
Grandparents killed in wrong-way crash on Hwy. 401 identified
A 60-year-old man and a 55-year-old woman killed in a wrong-way crash on Highway 401 earlier this week have been identified by the Consulate General of India in Toronto.
Police arrest 3 Indian nationals in killing of B.C. Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar
Three people have been arrested and charged in the killing of B.C. Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar – as authorities continue investigating potential connections to the Indian government.
BREAKING Suter scores late goal, clinches series for Canucks
The Vancouver Canucks are moving on to the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
TD worst-case scenario more likely after drug money laundering allegations: analyst
TD Bank Group could be hit with more severe penalties than previously expected, says a banking analyst after a report that the investigation it faces in the U.S. is tied to laundering illicit fentanyl profits.
Quebec man who threatened Trudeau, Legault online sentenced to 20 months in jail
A Quebec man who pleaded guilty to threatening Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Premier François Legault has been sentenced to 20 months in jail.
Human remains found in rural Sask. possibly a decade old, RCMP say
RCMP say human remains found in a rural area in central Saskatchewan may have been there for a decade or more.
Britney Spears 'home and safe' after paramedics responded to an incident at the Chateau Marmont, source tells CNN
A source close to singer Britney Spears tells CNN that the pop star is 'home and safe' after she had a 'major fight' with her boyfriend on Wednesday night at the Chateau Marmont in West Hollywood.
Canadian doctor concerned new weight-loss drug Wegovy may be used inappropriately
As Wegovy becomes available to Canadians starting Monday, a medical expert is cautioning patients wanting to use the drug to lose weight that no medication is a ''magic bullet,' and the new medication is meant particularly for people who meet certain criteria related to obesity and weight.
Drew Carey is never quitting 'The Price Is Right'
Drew Carey took over as host of 'The Price Is Right' and hopes he’s there for life. 'I'm not going anywhere,' he told 'Entertainment Tonight' of the job he took over from longtime host Bob Barker in 2007.