If you suspect that you've been a victim of a scam whether that be by phone or email, don't panic. Work through our suggestions below to hopefully keep you from harm.
If you've already let them in...
Stay calm, if you think you have been contacted by a scammer you can use the suggestions below to help keep yourself safe:
Remove remote access (if unsure how, just restart your computer). That should cut the remote session and kick them out of your PC
Make sure your anti-virus software hasn’t been removed and is working correctly
Scan your computer for malware. They may have installed password stealers or other Trojans to capture your keystrokes. Go into your anti-virus and run a complete system scan
Change all your passwords (Windows password, email, banking, etc)
Try to do a System Restore. If it's not available, check for backups you may have made and stored somewhere else
In some cases even if you avoided paying the scammers, they'll seek revenge on your machine. Here are some things they might try - Main password lockout and removal of drivers. For help with these, visit Microsoft
To remove TeamViewer see this helpful guide
To report a phishing email, see Report a phishing or spam email
Top Tips for making it harder for scammers
If you gave permission to the caller to access your computer, you should no longer consider it to be safe or clean. They might have installed programs, changed settings, or even installed a virus. In short, you can no longer trust it.
Install TalkTalk Supersafe
SuperSafe Internet Security powered by security experts F-Secure. SuperSafe protects your devices from viruses, phishing scams and online banking fraud.
Reinstall Windows
If all else fails, reinstall Windows. Don’t forget to back up your data before you begin with your reinstallation. Scan all the files that you’re backing up so that you don’t save the virus you’re trying to get rid of.
Backup your files
You would be well advised to back up all your files and reinstall your operating system. This could be a slow process but it ensures that your computer is back to a pristine state.
Don't buy a new computer!
People think that if a computer gets a virus, they’ll need to throw it away. This isn't necessary, as the hardware is still perfectly ok. Reinstalling Windows is like resetting the system and gets rid of the virus in the process.
Need to speak to someone?
Let us know if you're still looking for help with your query.
We appreciate your feedback, why not take a moment to review our service by
completing a Trustpilot survey.
Sorry this article didn't help...
You can chat with us seven days a week. Alternatively, check out Contacting TalkTalk for other ways to talk to us.
Still need help?
We have a reduced support team available at the moment, which means the wait times to speak to us may be longer than usual. Why not manage your account or get help with your services online using one of the below options