PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. – The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) today issued a public safety alert regarding a costly and elaborate scam targeting residents through fraudulent computer pop-ups disguised as McAfee security warnings. Authorities are urging citizens to be vigilant after one victim recently lost more than $530,000 to the scheme.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, the scam begins when a fake pop-up alert, appearing to be from the well-known antivirus company McAfee, appears on a potential victim’s computer screen. The goal of this initial deception is to trick the user into granting the scammers remote access to their device.
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Once access is gained, the perpetrators manipulate the victim, instructing them to perform a series of unusual financial transactions. These have included depositing substantial sums of money into Bitcoin ATMs, purchasing gold bars, and withdrawing large amounts of cash from their accounts. The Sheriff’s Office reports that different couriers are then dispatched to collect the cash or assets from the victims.
The significant loss of over $530,000 by a single victim highlights the severe financial danger posed by this scam operation.
The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office strongly advises residents never to provide personal details or financial account information over the phone or computer in response to unsolicited pop-ups or calls. Legitimate companies like McAfee do not typically operate in this manner.
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Citizens are urged to report any suspicious pop-ups, calls, or activities immediately to law enforcement.
Anyone who believes they have information about this scam or may have unfortunately become a victim is asked to contact the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office directly at (727) 582-6200.
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