The Harrison Police Department says it has received a “higher-than-normal” amount of scam reports throughout July.
The department posted on Facebook the amount of victim loss from the scam totals over $183,000.
According to the department, victims have reportedly received a pop-up on their computers stating they need to contact Microsoft at a phone number provided due to a virus on their devices. After a victim calls the number, the scammer allegedly starts transferring money through money orders, gift cards and/or cryptocurrency.
Those receiving a similar scam should contact their local law-enforcement agency.