Microsoft® or any other well-known software maker will never contact you with an urgent request to remotely access your computer. If you did not initiate the call NEVER let someone you don’t know gain control of your computer. Random calls from people claiming to be with the Internal Revenue Service, credit card companies and various hotel chains are also scams. Do not talk to these people, hang up.

If a window pops up in the middle of your screen while on the Internet, alerting you that your computer is infected or at risk, requiring you to click or call to secure your computer; shut the computer down and contact a computer professional (of your choosing) to investigate. If you have already allowed this to happen or called a phone number on the screen; chances are you’re probably infected or have permitted access to someone that intends to compromise your computer or harm you financially. Again, call a computer professional that you can trust. They will probably recommend that you change online passwords, contact your credit card provider (if you have made a financial transaction) and perform a full review of your computer; including malware and virus scans, or a complete restoration.

Do not open attachments from an email that you were not aware of before someone you know sent it. Email addresses and senders can be fake; this is the easiest way to get viruses and malware. It’s also to your benefit to be extremely suspicious of any email that creates a sense of urgency to react to supposed threats, lottery winnings or offers of employment. Email with links to unfamiliar dating sites, online drug distributors, lenders, and health advisors you should avoid as well.

Do not install software you’re unfamiliar with just because it looks fun or promises unrealistic benefits. Spyware and adware will cause your computer to act in ways that will result in unwanted email or phone calls and can potentially log keystrokes to allow others to gain access to your online accounts.