EDMONTON - Police in Winnipeg are warning people to be wary of telephone scammers pretending to be computer fixers.

Police say a victim told them about being contacted by a someone who claimed to be from a firm named "P.C. Doctor."

The caller updated the victim's computer security system in return for a credit card number and a charge.

The scammer wasn't finished there, later calling back to say the computer security package didn't work and that a refund was in order.

The victim then filled out a refund form with personal information and a credit card number, and was then hit with more fraudulent charges.

Loading Slideshow...

  • Fear

    Be wary of opportunities that convey "fear that a failure to act would be very costly," said the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College. <em>Photo courtesy of <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rockmixer/2916540731/" target="_hplink">rockmixer</a>.</em>

  • Large Fees Upfront

    Proceed with caution if you are asked to submit large sums of money upfront in exchange for a promise of a payout in the future. <em>Photo courtesy of <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dborman2/3258378233/" target="_hplink">borman818</a>.</em>

  • Freebies

    Scammers may try to attract potential investors with freebies -- don't let a free meal cloud your vision. Photo courtesy of <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenny-pics/6156504454/" target="_hplink">Jenny Downing</a>.

  • Risk Free

    Watch out for investments that promise guaranteed or high returns that are risk free. <em>Photo courtesy of <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/59937401@N07/5857256935/" target="_hplink">Images_of_Money</a>.</em>

  • No Questions

    Be concerned if you are not permitted to research a potential investment or to ask any questions about it. <em>Photo courtesy of <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/27384147@N02/5073536991/" target="_hplink">Ano Lobb</a>.</em>

  • Urgent

    Be cautious if you are expected to respond immediately to an opportunity.

  • Internet

    Be careful if you are faced with an opportunity from the Internet, an unidentifiable origin or an international source.

  • Confusion

    If the investment is so complex that it leaves you confused, proceed cautiously.

  • Too Good To Be True

    If it looks too good to be true, it may be a scam.

  • Secret

    If you're asked not to tell friends or family members about the investment, you should consider whether it is wise to move forward.