Internet router scam reported in the Keys

The Sheriff’s Office was notified this week of a scam in which a caller or door-to-door salesperson offers to upgrade your Internet router.

A router is a device that provides Wi-Fi. It sends information from the internet to personal devices like computers, phones and tablets.

The scammer often states they are with Verizon, Comcast, AT&T or some other large Internet provider. They may state they need access to your computer to install software — or ask you to install software — in order to update your router so you can achieve faster download speeds. This often turns out to be spyware or some other malicious software. The scammers may try to sell you a different router.

If you receive such a call hang up and call your Internet provider for verification.

These criminals can be very convincing, often representing themselves as experts within the company they claim to be representing.

General scam tips and reminders:

  • Never give access to your computer without first checking with the reported agency.
  • Never provide financial information to strangers over the phone.
  • Never pay for money demands from unknown callers over the phone with gift cards. This is a sure sign you are getting scammed.

Residents should never give personal, monetary, or gift card information to anyone over the phone, in a text, or an email— TO ANYONE REGARDLESS OF WHO THEY CLAIM TO BE — without first checking with that person, utility, business, or government agency.

Anyone with information about any crimes should contact the Sheriff’s Office at 305-292-7000. Callers who wish to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 1-866-471-8477. If a tip leads to an arrest in the case, the caller may be eligible for a cash reward. Tips may also be submitted online at www.floridakeyscrimestoppers.com or via a text message using the smartphone app called P3 Phone. Tips can also be submitted via social media such as Facebook, Instagram or Twitter using the @CrimeStoppers305 hashtag.

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