North Carolina police warn fake Microsoft employees going into people's homes, stealing from computers

Two victims have lost a combined $50,000 from the scheme

‘Deepfake’ scams get more sophisticated

Fox News’ Eben Brown reports on new efforts to determine what is real or fake as the use of ‘deepfake’ scams rise.

Asheville, North Carolina police are warning of a "sophisticated fraud scam" involving suspects posing as Microsoft employees to gain access to victims' personal information from their computers and then steal from them.

"This elaborate scam has already defrauded two residents in our area, resulting in losses of $50,000," the Asheville Police Department said in a Tuesday press release. "The suspects send a ‘Microsoft employee’ to the victim's residence to collect the money in person. This method has made the scam particularly effective, exploiting individuals' trust and vulnerability."

Police described the suspect's vehicle as a dark silver or gray Toyota Highlander, possibly with damage to the front right quarter panel.

Authorities are asking anyone with information about these scams to contact local law enforcement "immediately."

I'M A TECH EXPERT AND YOU NEED TO MAKE THESE TECH CHANGES NOW BEFORE IT'S TOO LATE

Microsoft employee scam suspect

Asheville police are warning of a scam in which suspects pose as Microsoft employees to steal money from victims' computers. (Asheville PD)

"We urge residents to exercise caution and verify the identity of anyone claiming to be a representative of Microsoft or any other company," police said.

3 TECH MUSTS BEFORE YOUR NEXT TRIP

An employee waits to greet customers at a Microsoft Corp. store in Bellevue, Washington, U.S., on Thursday, Jan. 26, 2017.

The Microsoft employee scam in Asheville has already resulted in $50,000 losses between two victims, police said. (David Ryder/Bloomberg)

Police also said it is "crucial" for residents confirm representatives' credentials "through official channels before engaging with them or providing any money."

A spokesperson for Microsoft did not respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment in time for publication.

Audrey Conklin is a digital reporter for Fox News Digital and FOX Business. Email tips to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or on Twitter at @audpants.

Authored by Audrey Conklin via FoxNews May 22nd 2024