Adelaide Scam Recovery and Computer Security

Your bank will never call you and ask you to install software, give remote access to your computer, or confirm your passwords or PIN. If someone has called claiming to be from your bank and asked you to do any of these things, hang up and call your bank directly using the number on the back of your card. If you have already given access to your computer, call us on 0492 982 293 as soon as possible.

Telstra and Optus do not make unsolicited calls asking for remote access to your devices. This is a very common scam targeting Australian households. If you have already allowed access, stop using the device and call us to arrange an assessment as soon as possible.

Microsoft does not contact customers this way. These pop-ups are designed to frighten you into calling a fake support number. Do not call the number, do not click anything on the screen, and if possible turn the computer off at the power button. Call us and we will sort it out.

Once someone has remote access they can install software, view files, and access saved passwords and banking details. The most important thing is to stop using the device immediately and have it checked by a technician before using it for anything sensitive. We will check for any software they may have installed and remove it, then secure your device against further access.

Remote access software is often designed to be invisible so there may be no obvious signs. Do not assume your computer is safe just because nothing looks wrong. If you have given someone remote access for any reason, a professional check is the only way to confirm your device is clean.

If you have been scammed and contact your bank, they will often ask you to provide written confirmation from a technician that your computer has been checked and is safe to use. This is sometimes called a device clearance letter, security assessment report, or IT clearance letter depending on your bank. Ctrl Alt Solutions provides this documentation as part of every scam recovery assessment. We have prepared clearance letters for clients of Commonwealth Bank, BankSA, and People's Choice Credit Union

Absolutely. We work with clients of all ages and experience levels across metro Adelaide. We take the time to explain what happened and what we have done to protect your device in plain language and we are happy to answer any questions you have. There is no judgment. These scams are designed by professionals to deceive people and it can happen to anyone.

Yes. We cover all of metro Adelaide including Elizabeth, Salisbury, Mawson Lakes, Gawler, Modbury, Tea Tree Gully, Campbelltown, Norwood, Unley, Mitcham, Semaphore, Port Adelaide, Henley Beach, Grange, Woodville, and surrounding areas. We come to your home so there is no need to transport your computer anywhere. Not sure if we cover your area? Give us a call on 0492 982 293 and we will confirm on the spot.

Our scam recovery service is charged at $120 per hour with most assessments taking between one and two hours depending on the age and condition of the device. This includes the full security check, removal of any threats found, and a written device clearance letter for your bank. If you do not already have antivirus protection, we recommend and install Trend Micro at retail price. In some cases we may also recommend upgrading to a newer device, particularly if your current computer is running an unsupported version of Windows. There are no hidden fees and we will always confirm the expected cost before we start any work.

Windows 10 reached its end of support in October 2025, which means Microsoft no longer releases security updates for it. This leaves your computer more vulnerable to scams, viruses, and malicious software than a device running a supported operating system. If you are running Windows 10 or older, we strongly recommend discussing an upgrade during your assessment. We can advise on whether your current device can be upgraded to Windows 11 or whether a new device would be the better option for your situation. There is no obligation and we will always give you honest advice.