The Astoria Police Department received a report from a citizen about a possible identity theft scam. The citizen reported that she received a phone call at her home from a subject inquiring about her computer. The caller began to tell the citizen that his company had information that some of the major files that are part of the Microsoft program were corrupted and needed to be repaired.

The citizen stated that she knew that this person would not have access to information about her computer because she does not have it connected to any type of outside information source such as the Internet. The caller stated at this point she ended the conversation with the caller without giving the caller any further information.

Based on the conversation, the citizen believed that the caller was attempting to gather information about her and her computer so that he could access its files and obtain personal information.

APD recommends that people do not give out personal information to anyone over the phone, through the mail or the Internet unless the contact has been initiated by the person. Also, people should be sure they know whom they are dealing with.